MAS Green Rowhouse Manual

Greening NYC’s Historic Buildings
Green Rowhouse Manual

Cover photo: Washington Park Rowhouses,
Fort Greene Historic District, Brooklyn, NY
© Cook+Fox Architects
Letter from the President
Dear Fellow New Yorker,
I am pleased to present the Greening NYC’s Historic Buildings manual, an integral part
of The Municipal Art Society of New York’s (MAS) campaign to demonstrate that any
historic building restoration can and should include energy efficiency measures. This
manual was developed as part of MAS’s Preservation and Climate Change Campaign,
which promotes the environmental benefits of retaining New York City’s older buildings
and improving their efficiency to fight climate change. This manual is intended to help
owners of historic rowhouses in New York City and elsewhere make energy efficiency
gains, while following best historic preservation practices. We hope that you find the
guidelines, references and images straightforward and useful.
A whopping 75% of New York City’s greenhouse gas emissions come from the
operation of buildings, and over half of the city’s building stock was constructed before
1940. So, increasing the energy efficiency of the city’s older buildings is the fastest,
most cost-effective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Property owners who
follow these guidelines can improve the appearance and energy performance of their
buildings and help fight climate change at the same time!
MAS has long been a respected champion for historic preservation. We have been at the
forefront of the city’s – and the nation’s – most significant preservation victories and
policies, from pioneering the Landmarks Preservation Law in 1965, to leading battles to
save some of our city’s most treasured historic places, including Grand Central Terminal
and Radio City Music Hall. Recognizing the importance of major monuments is a key
part of 21st century preservation, which also fills a broader role – to ensure our city’s
livability. New York City’s historic and diverse buildings contribute to our city’s vitality
and to an improved environment as well.
This manual was produced for MAS by Cook+Fox Architects and Terrapin Bright
Green, under the guidance of the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission,
and made possible through the support of the J.M. Kaplan Fund, the National
Endowment for the Arts, The National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Elizabeth and
Robert Jeffe Preservation Fund, the New York Community Trust and the Witkoff Group.
For more information and to download digital copies of the manual, please visit our
website, MAS.org.
Sincerely,
Vin Cipolla, President

Municipal Art Society
the Municipal Art Society of New York
The Municipal Art Society of New York, founded in 1893, is a non-profit 501(c)3
membership organization that fights for a more livable New York and advocates
for intelligent urban planning, design and preservation.
About
This report was carried out in 2012 for The Municipal Art Society of New York
(MAS). Preparation was conducted by Terrapin Bright Green and Cook+Fox
Architects under the supervision of MAS and with valuable input and guidance
from the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission. The opinions and
conclusions in this report are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily
reflect the views of the sponsoring or supervising agencies.
Supporters
MAS is grateful for generous funding provided for this manual by the New York
Community Trust, the J.M. Kaplan Fund, the National Endowment for the Arts, the
National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Elizabeth and Robert Jeffe Preservation Fund
and the Witkoff Group.
Green Rowhouse Manual Copyright 2012 The Municipal Art Society of New York
Table of contents
Introduction 5
Key Resources 9
Walls & Roofs 12
Windows & doors 20
Heating & Cooling 28
Lighting & Electrical 35
Plumbing & Water Efficiency 42
Appliances & Plug Loads 46
Indoor Health, Housekeeping & Materials 51
Sustainable landscape & Outdoor Amenities 57
Fuel Efficiency & Renewable Energy 63
Rating Systems 69
Incentives & Programs 73
Appendices & Glossary 76
The Municipal Art Society of New York 3

Greening New York City’s Historic Buildings Green Rowhouse Manual
Letter from the President
Dear Fellow New Yorker,

I am pleased to present the Greening NYC’s Historic Buildings manual, an integral part
of The Municipal Art Society of New York’s (MAS) campaign to demonstrate that any
historic building restoration can and should include energy efficiency measures. This
manual was developed as part of MAS’s Preservation and Climate Change Campaign,
which promotes the environmental benefits of retaining New York City’s older buildings
and improving their efficiency to fight climate change. This manual is intended to help
owners of historic rowhouses in New York City and elsewhere make energy efficiency
gains, while following best historic preservation practices. We hope that you find the
guidelines, references and images straightforward and useful.
A whopping 75% of New York City’s greenhouse gas emissions come from the
operation of buildings, and over half of the city’s building stock was constructed before
1940. So, increasing the energy efficiency of the city’s older buildings is the fastest,
most cost-effective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Property owners who
follow these guidelines can improve the appearance and energy performance of their
buildings and help fight climate change at the same time!
MAS has long been a respected champion for historic preservation. We have been at the
forefront of the city’s – and the nation’s – most significant preservation victories and
policies, from pioneering the Landmarks Preservation Law in 1965, to leading battles to
save some of our city’s most treasured historic places, including Grand Central Terminal
and Radio City Music Hall. Recognizing the importance of major monuments is a key
part of 21st century preservation, which also fills a broader role – to ensure our city’s
livability. New York City’s historic and diverse buildings contribute to our city’s vitality
and to an improved environment as well.
This manual was produced for MAS by Cook+Fox Architects and Terrapin Bright
Green, under the guidance of the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission,
and made possible through the support of the J.M. Kaplan Fund, the National
Endowment for the Arts, The National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Elizabeth and
Robert Jeffe Preservation Fund, the New York Community Trust and the Witkoff Group.
For more information and to download digital copies of the manual, please visit our
website, MAS.org.
Sincerely,

Municipal Art Society
Lafayette Street Rowhouses, Fort Greene Historic District, Brooklyn

© Terrapin Bright Green
4
Introduction
Appliances & Plug Loads Walls & Roof Plumbing & Water Windows & Doors Introduction
Greening NYC’s Historic Buildings

Indoor Health & Housekeeping Rating Systems Incentives Sustainable Site Case Studies
$ $$
Rowhouses
Renewable Energy Lighting & Electrical Heating & Cooling Key Resources Appendix
Introduction It takes many years

for new residential
buildings that are 30%
New York City’s many historic neighborhoods and landmark buildings contribute more efficient than the
greatly to its unique character. In light of today’s environmental challenges and
increased awareness, we must, as stewards of these irreplaceable resources, average-performing
properly maintain them by utilitizing both inherent and new green design historic building to
measures to maximize potential building performance. “Greening”—achieved by overcome, through
improving the energy efficiency and sustainability of these historic buildings—is efficient operations, the
good for the environment, saves money, reduces energy bills, and helps make them
more comfortable and pleasant places to live and work. negative climate change
impacts related to the
This manual is one of a series that provides instructions for improving the
efficiency and sustainability of New York City’s smaller (less than 50,000 square construction process.
feet) residential and commercial historic buildings. This series can be used for
buildings that are designated as landmarks by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Green Lab, a
Preservation Commission or listed on the National Register of Historic Places, program of the National Trust
as well as the many other older buildings that are not officially designated as for Historic Preservation
landmarks. The purpose of this manual is to show that it is possible to make green
improvements while still following best practices for historic preservation.
The Green Rowhouse Manual is specifically written for the owners of historic
rowhouses found in any of the City’s five boroughs. The manual explains the
various opportunities for improving energy efficiency, provides recommendations,
and identifies the resources available to help support the work. This manual
will help you assess what work can be done on your own, what work requires a
professional, and how to communicate your retrofit goals and intents to architects,
contractors, and other building professionals.
111,396
The manual is organized into eleven sections related to specific building elements, MULTIFAMILY
each exploring the low-, moderate-, and higher-cost opportunities for retrofit RESIDENTIAL
projects. It also covers operational best practices and regulatory processes, as well
as financial incentives and programs. 62,042
COMMERCIAL &
ONE & TWO MIXED-USE
Benefits of Retrofits FAMILY HOMES
OTHER
380,453 26,361
There are many qualitative and quantitative benefits of energy efficiency and
sustainability retrofits, some of which are more easily captured than others. Some
key benefits include the following:
• Reducing utility bills
• Retaining character and relevance of historic design Historic buildings by use type. One- and two-family
• Prolonging life of building materials and components homes represent more than 55% of New York City’s
pre-1940 stock of historic buildings under 50,000 ft2.
• Reducing water, energy, and carbon impacts
Data: Based on PLUTO database (2012) of
• Improving return on investment the New York City Planning Commission.
• Improving occupant comfort and health Graphic © Terrapin Bright Green
• Making building systems quieter

mbing & Water Windows & Doors Introduction
Historic preservation and Climate Change

Incentives Sustainable Site Case Studies
$
$ $
ating & Cooling Key Resources Appendix
Historic buildings are inherently efficient

A Older buildings incorporate many characteristics that make them energy efficient,
including features that maximize natural light and promote passive heating and
cooling. Typically constructed out of locally sourced, durable, and renewable
materials, rowhouses have endured for many years and with proper care will
continue to do so. However, since modern lifestyles and technologies require more
operating energy, even historic rowhouses must improve their energy efficiency.
Building construction requires a considerable amount of energy, including the
energy to produce building materials and the energy used in the construction
process itself. This embodied energy is a valuable asset and should be retained.
Embodied Energy That is why the aspect of historic preservation that includes retaining and
Embodied energy is the total energy repairing buildings and materials is inherently sustainable. Preserving buildings
required to manufacture a product. In prevents demolition, keeping materials out of landfills and preventing the need for
real estate, it refers to the energy used new materials to be produced.
to construct a new building, rather than
the energy used in the operation of a Energy efficiency is a critical part of fighting climate change
building. Building products like steel,
concrete, brick, and glass are greenhouse The building sector is one of the nation’s largest energy consumers. In fact, 39% of
gas intensive to manufacture. total energy consumed nationally results from the operating energy of residential
Environmentally friendly building and commercial buildings (National Trust of Historic Preservation, 2007). In New
products like concrete made with fly York City, the construction and operation of buildings account for almost 80% of
ash or recycled aluminum are gaining the greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change. Unless we reduce our
ground in the marketplace, but still greenhouse gas emissions, by 2030 the average temperature is expected to rise by
require energy to produce. By extending as much as 3˚F in New York City and sea level is projected to rise up to 23 inches
the life of our existing buildings, and (New York City Panel on Climate Change 2010, Climate Change Adaptation in
refurbishing rather than replacing, we New York City).
get the most out of existing building
components and the energy embodied in New York City can greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by increasing the
them. energy efficiency of all of its buildings. Today more than 50% of the city’s building
stock is comprised of small buildings constructed before 1940 (approximately
580,000 structures). Integrating efficiency improvements into these buildings
will yield a substantial environmental benefit. While saving energy and preventing
negative environmental impacts, improving efficiency will also enhance the city’s
iconic landmarks and historic neighborhoods for the benefit of generations to
come.
57,204 While recent local laws and code changes address the city’s larger buildings
and small city-owned buildings, few actions have been taken to improve the
BX 35,931 efficiencies of the majority of existing smaller buildings. Improving the energy
215,437 SI efficiency of New York City’s small and historic buildings are initiatives outlined
34,449 in the updated PlaNYC 2030 agenda set forth by the Mayor’s Office of Long-Term
QN MN Planning and Sustainability. Among other goals, the plan aims to reduce building
gs consumption and meet the City’s overall carbon reduction target of 30% by 2030.
This manual will help accomplish the City’s goals to improve air quality, conserve
BK water, reduce carbon emissions and increase renewable energy. These efforts
will also improve the reliability of the electricity grid and reduce the potential for
239,729 brownouts and blackouts during hot summer months.
What to do first
Historic buildings by borough. Brooklyn and Queens are With the right background information, improving your building’s performance
home to more than 75% of New York City’s pre-1940 does not have to be a daunting task. Owners are urged to review this manual before
stock of historic buildings under 50,000 ft2. applying for permits, selecting a contractor, or starting any work. Depending
Data: Based on PLUTO database (2012) of
on the size of your project, there may be regulatory, structural, and cost issues
the New York City Planning Commission. to consider, as well as scheduling issues. All work should be evaluated based
Graphic © Terrapin Bright Green on its effect on your historic building as well as its potential to increase energy
efficiency. Please keep in mind that this manual is not a substitute for Landmarks
6
Introduction
Preservation Commission (LPC) or New York City Department of Buildings (DOB)

policies or regulations. To help ease the process, consider the steps below before $ $$
beginning a new project. Renewable Energy Lighting & Electrical Heating & Cooling Key Resources Appendix
A
Know Your Building Energy Audits
Understand designation status and regulatory requirements. Determine if your The energy audit is a detailed evaluation
building is locally designated as a New York City landmark or as part of a City of your building’s systems and
historic district, or is listed on the National or State Register of Historic Places (see identification of energy conservation
the Regulatory Overview section of this chapter). Most alterations or repairs to opportunities. Utility bills are collected
the exterior of City landmarked buildings require LPC review. Historic properties for a 12- to 36- month period to allow the
may also qualify for specific incentives that can help pay for renovation costs. If auditor to evaluate your building’s energy
your building has been designated by the city, refer to the LPC and DOB regulatory demand rates and energy usage profiles.
considerations and consider the implications early on in your project. This will The auditor may discuss the systems
minimize potential misunderstandings and costly last-minute changes. with you to get a better understanding
of how you use them and to gain insight
Conduct an energy audit. An energy audit will help determine which measures into short- and longer-term energy
will work in your particular building. An audit evaluates how much energy a consumption patterns.
building consumes over the course of a year and calculates which energy-saving
investments will help make it more efficient and achieve the greatest payback. In addition to identifying all energy
An audit will analyze the building envelope (roof, doors, windows, walls, conservation opportunities appropriate
and insulation); mechanical systems (HVAC, hot water systems, equipment for your building, a detailed financial
size, condition, and efficiency); and electrical and lighting issues, and make analysis may be performed for each
recommendations for improvements. The resulting recommendations will help measure based on implementation cost
you establish priorities, choose cost-effective and affordable measures, and estimates, building-specific operating
develop a workable sequence for your retrofit project. In New York State and City cost savings, and your investment
there are a number of free energy audits for homeowners. If possible, choose an criteria. The information gathered in
energy auditor with historic building experience. See the section on Walls & Roofs this effort can be used to develop your
for the types of diagnostic tests conducted during an energy audit. building’s maintenance plan and project
capital budget for building operations.
Start Small
Consider user behavior. User behavior greatly affects energy consumption and
should be considered before developing an energy efficiency plan. Reducing plug
loads—the amount of electricity appliances such as computers, space heaters,
microwaves or cable boxes use while on standby—is one easy way to save energy.
See the sections on Lighting & Electrical and Appliances & Plug Loads for more
guidance.
Take advantage of the “passive systems.” The methods and devices that can
be integrated into a building to help heat or cool the building with little or no
assistance from electrical or other nonrenewable energy sources can also be a cost-
effective method to reduce energy consumption. One example is placing awnings
or shutters over windows to provide shade and reduce cooling requirements.
Heavy drapery placed over windows in the winter helps block drafts, and simply
rearranging furniture can block or enhance air circulation. See the Heating &
Cooling section for more guidance.
Weatherize your building. Weatherization is a low-cost and easy way to decrease
building energy losses and improve comfort. Weatherization includes work such as
sealing and weatherstripping windows and sealing holes in the walls. This should Quick Guide for Reference Tools
be done before considering more extensive options such as adding insulation. See to get to know your building
the sections on Walls & Roofs and Windows & Doors for more guidance.
see section on
Blower door test
Walls & Roofs
Plan Ahead for Long-Term Opportunities
Energy audit see sidebar above
Organize your work. After the energy audit, determine the sequence of operations
LPC Designation see www.nyc.gov/
for a renovation project. Consider which improvement steps should be completed
Reports landmarks
first, or concurrently, for the best long-term outcome. For example, window and
wall upgrades should be done before HVAC replacement so that the equipment is Thermal see section on
properly sized (see section on Heating & Cooling). imaging test Walls & Roofs

mbing & Water Windows & Doors Introduction
Determine payback. The initial price of a product or design approach is only part of
$
$ $ its true cost; operational costs often far exceed the initial cost. Consider long-term
ating & Cooling Key Resources Appendix savings, ease of maintenance and conservation when budgeting for your retrofit.
A Repair versus replace. A preservation rule of thumb is to repair features when
possible, and replace only when a feature is beyond repair. This principle helps
retain authenticity and historic integrity, and is also good for the environment.
New York City generates 10 million tons of construction and demolition waste
annually— 60% of its total waste output. Repairing and reusing buildings and
materials helps minimize this waste.
While replacement and upgrade opportunities are discussed in the manual, the
majority of opportunities presented deal with optimizing existing elements,
such as applying sealants or ensuring that cross-ventilation is not inadvertently
blocked. These opportunities capitalize on economic, historic, and environmental
resource preservation for the benefit of the owner and the community. Many
of the improvements suggested in this manual do not require a permit from the
Department of Buildings or the Landmarks Preservation Commission, but still
have an impact on energy use.
REGULATORY OVERVIEW
Historic preservation is a nationwide movement to maintain buildings, landmarks,
and landscapes that are significant to local or national history. The National
Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the New York State Historic Preservation
Act of 1980 established the National and State Registers programs. New York City’s
preservation agency, the Landmark Preservation Commission (LPC), is one of
the country’s most active preservation bodies. The LPC was established in 1965,
one year after the historic Pennsylvania Station was torn down to make way for
Madison Square Garden. Designated buildings must be at least thirty years old.
What Is a Landmark?
The State and National Registers of Historic Places recognize buildings, structures,
Early days of historic preservation. The first historic districts, objects, and sites that are significant in the history, architecture,
preservation efforts began in 1850 with Hasbrouck archeology, engineering, and culture of New York and the nation. In New York
House in Newburgh, NY, which served as George City, a landmark is a building, property, or object that has been designated by the
Washington’s headquarters during the Revolutionary Landmarks Preservation Commission because it has a special character or special
War. The building was designated a National Historic historical or aesthetic interest or value as part of the development, heritage, or
Landmark in 1961. cultural characteristics of the city, state, or nation.
Photo © David Malantic
Preservation Agencies
In an effort to supoort the historic fabric of New York City, codes and regulations
manage and track environmental and cultural preservation, as well as the quality,
GREEN LIGHT APPROVAL performance, maintenance, and safety of construction measures. City, state
95% of all applications to the Landmarks and federal programs and agencies are both regulators and resources for your
Preservation Commission are reviewed renovation project.
and approved at staff level. The vast
• Federal: National Park Service (NPS)
majority of energy efficiency and greening
actions fall into this category of approvals, • State: New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation
or are not subject to LPC review or (SHPO), Energy Conservation Construction Code of New York State
regulations at all. Each section of the (ECCCNYS)
manual provides examples of actions
• City: New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC), New York
that will or will not require LPC review.
City Department of Buildings (DOB), New York City Department of City
Planning (DCP)
See Appendix A for more information about these agencies and the services
and oversight they each provide, such as obtaining restoration guidance,
understanding permit processes, or determining whether your building is
impacted by a landmark designation.
8
$ $ $
Key Resources
Key Resources
Common acronyms
DCP New York City Department of City Planning
www.nyc.gov/planning
DEP New York City Department of Environmental Protection
www.nyc.gov/dep
DOB New York City Department of Buildings
www.nyc.gov/buildings
DOE US Department of Energy
www.eere.energy.gov
ECCCNYS Energy Conservation Construction Code of New York State
EPA US Environmental Protection Agency
www.epa.gov
FSC Forest Stewardship Council
www.fsc.org
HVAC Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning
LED Light emitting diode
LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
www.usgbc.org/LEED
LPC Landmarks Preservation Commission
www.nyc.gov/landmarks
MAS Municipal Art Society
www.mas.org
OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration
www.osha.gov
PlaNYC Mayor’s Agenda for a Greener, Greater New York City
www.nyc.gov/planyc2030
SHPO New York State Historic Preservation Office
www.nysparks.com/shpo
VOC Volatile Organic Compound
NPS National Park Service
NRHP National Register of Historic Places
www.nps.gov/nr
NYCECC New York City Energy Conservation Code
NYSERDA New York State Energy Research & Development Authority
www.nyserda.ny.gov
WBDG Whole Building Design Guide, National Institute of Building Sciences
www.wbdg.org/resources/


ting Systems Incentives Sustainable Site Case Studies
$ $ $
ting & Electrical Heating & Cooling Key Resources Appendix
Professional Services
In addition to familiar trade experts, such as plumbers and electricians, there
may be good reason to consult a professional to address your specific renovation
challenges. The following is a list of professionals and the primary services they
could provide for an historic building renovation:
• Architect (licensed professional). Designing basic interiors to comprehensive
renovations, advising on the construction, and providing guidance on the
selection of materials finishes. Architects with experience working on high-
performance or green projects or historic renovations are more likely to be
able to meet your project goals.
• General Contractor. Overseeing the day-to-day activities of the construction
site, managing subcontractors (plumbers, electricians, etc.), and
communicating information to you.
• Craftsperson. Making decorative or practical objects, such as tile work,
millwork, or metalwork. Some craftsmen specialize in environmentally
responsible materials and processes and can assist you in identifying a
desirable product while minimizing the impact to the indoor environmental
quality of your home.
• Energy Auditor. Inspecting, surveying, and analyzing the energy flows of your
building to maximize its comfort, health, safety, durability, and energy efficiency.
• Structural Engineer (licensed professional). Assessing the structural integrity
of your existing building, including the roof, which may be necessary and
possibly required if installing an extensive vegetated roof.
• Sustainability Consultant. Assessing your goals for the project and identifying
appropriate strategies and experts required, facilitating project integrative
design with your various consultants and contractors; some sustainability
consultants also provide LEED or Passive House certification services.
• Exterior Wall Consultant. Assessing the condition of your existing exterior
walls, including moisture problems, airflow, and the viability of adding interior
or exterior wall insulation.
10
$ $ $
Key Resources
Key Resources
• Energy Basics
The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) basics about renewable energy and
energy efficiency technologies and how they work, what they’re used for,
and how they can improve your life, homes, and business
www.eere.energy.gov/basics
• EnergySavers
A DOE program that provides tips for reducing your energy usage
www.energysavers.gov
• Energy Star‰
A DOE program identifying energy efficient appliances
www.energystar.gov
• Building Green
The online hub for Environmental Building News, a resource for articles,
products, and case studies pertaining to various building systems and products
www.buildinggreen.com/menus
• Building Performance Institute
The certification body for energy auditors
www.bpi.org
• Department of Buildings
The New York City agency in charge of regulating buildings
• Landmarks Preservation Commission Designation Reports
www.nyc.gov/html/lpc/html/forms/reports.shtml
• NPS Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic
Properties, with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring
& Reconstructing Historic Buildings
www.nps.gov/history/hps/tps/standguide/
• Whole Building Design Guide
A program of the National Institute of Building Sciences
www.wbdg.org/resources
• NYSERDA
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
offers incentives for upgrading energy-using systems
www.nyserda.ny.gov/residential

WALLS & ROOFS

$ $ $
The potentialAenergy A home’s energy efficiency depends on a balance of air sealing, insulation, moisture
savings from reducing control, and ventilation. Air infiltration—the exchange of air through cracks and
gaps in the outside shell of a building—increases heating and cooling costs and
drafts in a home reduces comfort for occupants. New York City’s climate is generally moderate,
may range from 5% but is subject to extremes in the summer and winter. A well-insulated wall and
to 30% per year. roof system will help keep your home comfortable year-round. It will also manage
moisture effectively so as to avoid freeze-thaw damage to the walls, mold growth,
US Department of Energy and associated indoor air quality issues.
Any work done to your walls and roof should be evaluated based on its effect on
the historic character of the building and its potential to increase energy efficiency.
It is very important to first perform less invasive wall and roof repairs such as
sealing and weatherstripping before adding insulation or other extensive work.
Consult with an energy auditor before undertaking any major work.
Auditors use diagnostic tools to evaluate the condition of your walls and roof as
well as many other aspects of your building. A qualified home energy auditor will
include an insulation check as a routine part of a whole-house energy assessment.
Test results help determine where you have the most air infiltration and where
to make improvements for achieving energy savings and greater comfort. Some
typical tests include:
• Blower door test. A blower door test uses a powerful fan mounted on your
exterior door to help determine the airtightness of your home. Uncalibrated
blower doors can only locate leaks in your home, whereas a calibrated blower
door will quantify the amount of air leakage and determine the effectiveness
of your existing air-sealing. The test will help you identify air leaks and drafts,
moisture condensation problems, and potential for indoor air contamination.
The results of the test will help you prioritize weatherization and moisture
management efforts.
• Thermal imaging test. Thermography measures surface temperatures by
using infrared cameras. The results of an interior thermographic inspection
will help detect where warm air is escaping through walls and joints.
Typical wall and roof assemblies found in pre-1940s buildings

• Masonry: Rowhouse building walls of this period generally consist of a
multi-wythe masonry wall of brick or a mix of brick and other masonry block.
The exterior of the wall could be faced with brick or natural stone. The roof
generally consists of a wood framed structure with either slate, asphalt, or
wood shingles, sheet metal or terra-cotta tiles for sloped roofs or a built-up
bituminous (tarpaper) roof for flat roofs. Generally the interior wall finish
Blower door test. was originally plaster on wire or wood lath, possibly with a coating acting
A blower door test can determine how effectively air- as a vapor barrier at the masonry. Larger buildings occasionally have steel
sealed a home is. structural frames with masonry infill.
Photo © David Cunningham Architecture • Wood: Rowhouses can also be a wood-framed structure with wood clapboard
Planning siding or shingles. The roof generally consists of a wood-framed structure
with slate, sheet metal, or wood shingles. The interior wall finish was
traditionally plaster on wood lath.
Key issues with walls and roofs in historic buildings

• Less invasive repairs and sealing are often undervalued by the homeowner.
Unaware of the potential for immediate payback, air leaks are left unaddressed
until it is time to undertake more extensive work such as adding insulation.
• Problems caused by water damage or neglect compound over time, as do
12
Walls & Roofs
Appliances & Plug Loads Walls & Roof Plumbing & Water Windows & Do
the costs for repair or replacement. Regular maintenance of gutters, roofs,

Indoor Health & Housekeeping Rating Systems Incentives Sustainable S
walls, and exterior openings will extend the life of your building envelope by $ $ $
preventing water infiltration. Renewable Energy Lighting & Electrical Heating & Cooling Key Resourc
• The U.S. Department of Energy has found that 31% of air infiltration occurs at
the floors, walls, and ceiling. Cracks between the house and the foundation, gaps
around plumbing, and electrical penetrations are also typical sources for leaks.
• Insulating historic building walls is a technically complex undertaking.
Masonry walls in particular are difficult due to the potential for freeze-thaw
damage related to the moisture balance within the wall. Have your building
evaluated by a professional before installing insulation.
• Moisture, mold, and mildew create physical damage as well as indoor air
quality and occupant health issues. Properly maintaining the exterior wall and
roof are critical to preventing moisture intrusion.
OPPORTUNITIES—LOW/NO COST
Evaluate the condition of your walls and roof
Your energy audit should include the evaluation of your building’s current thermal
performance and the identification of any deficiencies in the building envelope or
mechanical systems. Assess the condition of your building exterior by inspecting
areas where different building materials meet, such as at corners where siding and
chimneys meet and areas where the foundation and the bottom of exterior brick or
siding meet.
Weatherize your home

Weatherization involves implementing a series of cost-effective measures to
reduce air infiltration and make a building envelope more energy efficient. Building facade terminology. For additional information
Weatherizing a historic building requires undertaking those measures in ways that on common architectural styles in New York City, see
has minimal impact on the building’s design and materials. Although reducing the LPC Rowhouse Manual.
drafts is recommended, it is not advisable to seal a historic building too tightly. 1. Chimney 12. Muntin
Be sure to allow an adequate level of ventilation to avoid causing damage to your
building. See the National Park Service web site for more information (www.nps 2. Peaked Slate Roof 13. Stone Sill
.gov/tps/sustainability/energy-efficiency/weatherization.htm). 3. Dormer 14. Shutter Dog
• Repair or seal exterior wall areas. Properly maintained exterior walls can 4. Upper Sash 15. Brick Laid in
Flemish Bond
reduce deterioration, moisture damage and energy loss. After evaluating the 5. Lower Sash
condition of your walls and roof, consider the following actions: 16. Transom
6. Cornice
›› Plug and seal holes or penetrations for faucets, pipes, exhaust ducts 17. Paneled Wood
7. Leader Shutters
(remember to use high-temperature sealant if it is a pipe or duct that 8. Stone Lintel
gets hot), electric outlets, and wiring with the appropriate material. 18. Colonnette
9. Window Pane 19. Paneled Wood Door
›› Check wood components like fascias or eaves for deterioration.
10. Meeting Rail 20. Iron Stoop Railings
›› Repoint masonry by removing deteriorated mortar from the joints 11. Six-over-six, Double-
of masonry walls and replacing it with new mortar. The mortar 21. Iron Fence
hung Window
creates a watertight seal at the joints between individual masonry 22. Stoop
elements. Check wood components like fascias, window trim, and
Graphic courtesy of LPC, Rowhouse Manual
siding for deterioration. Replace wood components and any associated
flashing to prevent water damage and minimize air infiltration.
›› Clean masonry walls regularly. Refer to resources section later in this
chapter for information on techniques and best practices for cleaning
your masonry walls in a sustainable and water efficient manner.
• Seal seams and gaps in the basement and attic.
›› Prevent drafts along the floor by caulking along the sill plate and rim
joist—the wood beam that closes off the floor beams. At the rim joist,
seal the top and bottom of the inside of the cavity created by the joist.
See the chart on page 15 for more on insulating at the rim joist.

›› Use mineral wool or cotton batt for larger openings, such

recommended
$$$ R-values for New york city
as plumbing chases and attic hatch covers, with special
Renewable Energy
The R-value is a measure of thermal
Lighting & Electrical Heating & Cooling Key Resources Appendix attention to potential flammability concerns.
resistance used in the building and
construction industry. AAn R-value • Seal around windows and doors. See the section on Windows & Doors for
indicates a level of resistance of an specific information about sealing and weather stripping.
insulation to heat flow, including
conduction, convection, and radiation. Manage moisture
The higher the R-value, the greater the
Discoloration on a wall, wet or deteriorating walls, or bubbles behind paint or
effectiveness of the insulation. R-values for
wallpaper are all signs of possible water damage. If signs of water damage are
insulation vary depending on the material
apparent, it is critical to identify the water source. Plumbing, roof, walls, and
used, and its thickness and denseness.
window frames are likely sources of water in the home. Water damage should be
The table below is the Department addressed as soon as it is detected to minimize potential extent of damage, mold
of Energy’s (DOE) R-value growth and repair costs.
recommendations for existing homes
in Zone 3 of the United States, which Seal basement walls
includes New York City. Higher R-values
Silicate mineral paints and coating systems help preserve the structure of your
mean greater insulating power. Savings
building, maintain the appropriate moisture balance, and resist indoor pollution.
will vary for each application, but the
Consider applying high-quality breathable paints, coatings, and repair mortars to
recommended values are based on
exterior basement wall surfaces to restore and protect natural stone and masonry
comparing future energy savings to the
current cost of installing insulation.
and mitigate damage from salts and rising damp.
INSULATION ZONE R-VALUE Reduce heat loss through your chimney

• Keep your damper closed when not in use.
Attic—Uninsulated R30-R60
• Install an energy saving fireplace damper. Energy efficient dampers are
Attic—Floor R19-R25 generally mounted to the top of the chimney and have a tight gasket seal. By
Cathedral Ceiling R22-R38 providing a tighter seal, they reduce downdrafts, making them 90% more
effective than traditional dampers.
Wall Cavity R13-R15
• If your fireplace is no longer functioning, seal the flue, install a well-sealed
Floor R19-R25 fireplace damper, or fill in the chimney to prevent unnecessary heat loss.
Source: Adapted from DOE/CE-0180 2008,
Insulation Fact Sheet Reduce heat island effect of your roof
Black rooftops contribute to radiant heat gain within your house and solar heat
gain at the exterior. Implementing the measures below will help reduce your
building’s heat gain.
• White roofs: Painting your dark roof white or silver is an inexpensive way to
reduce temperatures, keep heat from radiating to areas below.
Modern Siding • High-albedo membranes: Upgrade membrane roof with light-colored (high-
Modern replacement aluminum or albedo) materials. Replace old or degraded roofing materials with light gravel,
vinyl siding installed over original wood pavers, or other solar reflective material. Look for opportunities to install
siding covers and damages the historic Energy Star rated or other roofing materials with a solar reflectance index
building materials and often requires (SRI) of 78 or greater to cover building roof areas. For usable rooftops, light-
the removal of trim details and other colored materials make for a more comfortable outdoor space and better
decorative features. This reduces the environment for plant life to flourish and also contribute to longer-lasting
integrity and character of historically roofing materials.
and architecturally significant buildings.
• Green (vegetated) roofs: Not only will a green roof cool your building, it will
Instead, damaged wood siding or
also detain and absorb stormwater and promote biodiversity. The complexity
shingles should be repaired or replaced.
of your green roof will determine your expense. Investigate the structural
Occasionally homeowners are tempted
capacity of roof framing with a building professional (architect or structural
to install insulation and siding over
masonry for increased thermal value
engineer) before implementing an extensive green roof system.
or the promise of reduced maintenance.
Faulty installation does not allow the
masonry wall to breath, causing damage
to the masonry that cannot be detected
once it is covered.
14
Walls & Roofs
Insulation Application Insulation Type / Material commeNts $ $ $

Attic/Ceiling Blow-in; Spray Foam; Blanket Renewable Energy Lighting & Electrical Heating & Cooling Key Resourc
ROOF AREAS
Unvented Roof Professional guidance is recommended when determining the

Rigid/Board
(low-slope/“flat” roof ) correct location for insulation for low-slope/flat roofs.
Blow-in: mineral wool and
Vented Roof
fiberglass; Blanket.
Enclosed/Finished Walls Blow-in, Spray Foam
Rigid/Board; Blow-in; Spray Pay special attention to wet areas where moisture control
Unfinished Walls
WALLS
Foam; Blanket is a concern; trapping moisture can lead to mold or mildew

growth. Vapor barriers are generally recommended for high-
Wet Areas
Rigid/Board: XPS and mineral humidity areas.
(bathrooms and
wool; Blow-in; Spray Foam
kitchens)
Unvented crawl spaces Rigid/Board; Blanket
FOUNDATION
Rigid/Board: XPS and mineral Be certain your foundation/basement walls are not damp.
wool; Blow-in; Spray Foam; If moisture is trapped, it will defeat the insulation’s value
Walls/Basement and possibly encourage mold growth.
Blanket: fiberglass or mineral
wool with furring
Source: Based on DOE EERE EnergySavers.gov
Insulation applications. While fiberglass insulation is

OPPORTUNITIES—MODERATE/HIGHER COST
the standard in the industry today, cellulose and cotton
Deciding to further insulate your home depends on your budget, where and fiber insulation have competitive R-values per square
how much you insulate, and the savings you’ll realize in energy bills. The US inch and tend to have lower environmental footprints
Department of Energy’s Zip Code Insulation Calculator, located online, provides with very low embodied energy and negligible pollution
insulation cost estimates and a rate of return on your investment. See the sidebar from manufacture. Pay particular attention to old wiring
for recommended insulation values on page 14. If you have high heating and such as knob-and-tube, and adjacency of electrical
cooling bills, improving your insulation will pay for itself over time. fixtures. Care should also be taken not to cover
ventilation such as attic vents.
Insulate your attic or pitched roof
• Inspect your roof, attic and attic floor area for existing insulation. Use
LPC Permit Examples: roofs
the tools on the US Department of Energy’s web site to determine the
insulation’s R-value and whether it was correctly installed. If you think you No Permit Required
have vermiculite insulation, a grayish material that resembles gravel, there is • Replacing or installing caulking
a chance it could contain asbestos. Consult a professional asbestos removal around skylights and other roof
company before taking any action. penetrations
• Insulate your roof or attic. It is less invasive and often less costly to insulate • Replacing or repairing flat built-up
your attic rather than the walls of your building. Considerable heat loss can roofs
occur through an uninsulated roof, so a layer of insulation in your attic could • Installing insulation at the interior
have a significant impact on energy bills. Determining the correct location for side of roofs
the insulation is critical. If your attic is unheated, insulating the attic floor will
allow better air sealing, more insulation, a more cost-effective retrofit, and • Applying white roof coatings on flat
lower energy use. roofs
Permit Required
Insulate your flat or low-slope roofs • Replacing roofing materials other than
Flat roof insulation is typically installed below the roof membrane. There are flat built-up roofs
many systems and types of rigid insulation available. If you are removing the • Installing exterior insulation
original roof assembly there is also the opportunity to insulate between the roof’s
• Applying white roof coatings on
structural members. Professional guidance is recommended. sloped roofs
It is also possible to insulate at the underside of the roof between the ceiling • Installing green roofs
rafters. This should be undertaken with care, and it is advisable only when the
rafter space is a nonventilated area. If your low-sloped roof is ventilated and • Installing skylights
adding insulation would interrupt the airspace, moisture can be trapped. Spray
foam or dense pack cellulose insulation is recommended for this application. Source: Landmarks Preservation Commission

Insulate basement floor and crawl spaces

$ $ $
Appendix
Most people don’t realize how much heat is lost through uninsulated foundations.
If the basement or crawl space is unheated, unfaced batts can be used to insulate
Renewable Energy Lighting & Electrical Heating & Cooling Key Resources
A between the overhead floor joists (support beams). If using faced batts, staple them
into place and allow the facing to serve as a vapor barrier.
If the basement is heated and regularly used, insulate the basement walls. The
insulation Type / Material Cost Performance & Comments

Polyiso (Polyisocyanurate) High High insulating value for relatively little thickness.
Rigid / Board
Can block thermal short circuits when installed continuously over

EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) High
frames or joists.
XPS (Extruded Polystyrene)* High An effective vapor barrier.
Mineral wool (semi-rigid board, Foil-faced mineral wool and fiberglass when taped provide an interior
High
rock or slag)** vapor barrier.
Low to Good for adding insulation to existing finished areas, irregularly shaped
Cellulose
Moderate areas, and around obstructions.
(loose or dense-fill)
Low to Good for adding insulation to existing finished areas, irregularly shaped
Mineral wool (rock or slag)**
Blow-In
Moderate areas, and around obstructions.
Energy performance of cellulose fill is comparable to high-density

Fiberglass (formaldehyde-free Low to fiberglass batts, and more effective than batts at controlling air leakage
recycled content) Moderate and convective and radiant heat. Cellulose can have high recycled
content, very low embodied energy, and low/no-toxicity fire retardants.
(low density)
Spray Foam
Icynene™
Soy Moderate Good for adding insulation to existing finished areas, irregularly shaped
Cementitious foam (Aircrete) to High areas, and around obstructions.
Polyurethane Foam (closed-cell)*
Suited for standard stud and joist spacing, which is relatively free from
Mineral wool (rock or slag)** Low
obstructions.
(batts & rolls)
Suited for standard stud and joist spacing, which is relatively free from
Cotton Low
Blanket
obstructions; low- or no-toxicity fire retardant.

Can have high recycled content, very low embodied energy, and low- or
Cellulose Low
no-toxicity fire retardants.
Fiberglass (formaldehyde-free
Low Does not provide the degree of air seal that blown cellulose does.
recycled content)
Source: Based on DOE EERE EnergySavers.gov
simplest method is to build wooden frames against the masonry foundation walls,
*Extruded polystyrene (XPS) and closed-cell
pack them with rigid insulation, and install drywall. A moisture barrier should
spray polyurethane foam (SPF) typically use
blowing agents for installation that are harmful
be installed under the drywall to prevent damage to the walls. You can hire a
greenhouse gases. contractor or do this yourself by consulting a good do-it-yourself manual.
** Mineral wool is naturally fire resistant, and In wood framed houses, insulate the rim joist in the ceiling of the basement. After
some brands are produced with high post- sealing the rim joists you can take it one step further and insulate the cavity around
consumer recycled slag content. Mineral wool the joist with rigid foam or blanket insulation.
insulation is used frequently in Europe and is
being rediscovered in the US market. Insulate the exterior walls
Note: At the time of this publication, Aerogel, In general, adding insulation to the walls of historic buildings is not a cost-
a synthetic material with very low thermal effective treatment, nor does it handle historic wall structures delicately. Adding
conductivity, is being developed as insulation blown-in insulation to historic wall assemblies may trap moisture within the wall
in multiple forms. Currently it is most readily and accelerate deterioration of the structure.
available as Thermablock™ strips, which are
adhered to wall framing to prevent thermal Properly installing wall insulation involves the removal of historic finishes that
bridging from exterior to interior. can be damaged in the process. It is best to limit insulation to attics and basements
where it can be installed with minimal damage to your building. If walls are so
16
Walls & Roofs
deteriorated that complete replacement is required or if you find that your walls
Insulation and vapor control $ $ $

are uninsulated, insulation can be properly installed with a vapor barrier as the
wall is repaired. installation tips Renewable Energy Lighting & Electrical Heating & Cooling Key Resourc
• Make sure you take proper health

Insulating exterior walls is very challenging in historic buildings, particularly with
and safety precautions!
masonry buildings. If your project involves extensive application of insulation and
vapor barriers, proceed with caution and consult with an exterior wall consultant • Keep in mind that for insulation
or architect experienced with historic building issues before taking action. to work effectively, it must be a
continuous layer of material with no
From Interior: gaps, cracks, or air bypasses. Consult
• Uninsulated Walls. In historic masonry buildings, thick (multi-wythe) load- a good do-it-yourself manual or hire
bearing brick walls were rarely insulated. Insulating these exterior walls a reputable contractor to ensure the
can be tricky and, if not implemented properly, could increase the building’s job is done properly.
vulnerability (including bricks, end joists, and beams) to freeze-thaw damage • If insulation is installed incorrectly it
during cold and damp winters. Assess the quality of the original bricks and the will lose its effectiveness, regardless
orientation of the wall—is it routinely exposed to rain? If insulating exterior of the R-value. Do not squeeze batts
masonry walls is important for your home, proceed with caution and hire to fit into a space, and make sure that
an experienced professional. See section on Rating Systems & Performance blown-in insulation is the right depth.
Standards for a background on Passive House standards for insulation.
• Do not leave gaps around openings
Passive House methodology focuses on stringent and sustainable insulation
for pipes, wires, and other utilities;
specifications, as well as on the airtightness of the building envelope, in order
remember that you should not cover
to achieve 50-70% less energy use than a conventional building. electrical equipment.
• Existing Insulated Walls. If your exterior wall is already insulated, • When using rigid insulation, tape and
determining whether your insulation is adequate depends on where it is seal the joints of the insulation panels.
installed, what material is used, how it is installed, and how much is installed.
If your wall insulation is substantially less than what is recommended, • When using rigid insulation, an
additional insulation may be a worthwhile investment, but it can be expensive. interior vapor diffusion retarder
Where your insulation is already adequate, adding more insulation may not should not be installed, allowing the
be the best investment. If your exterior building walls abut adjacent buildings, interior wall to dry to the inside.
there may be significant heat transfer. Feel these walls in the winter to see if • Additional vapor diffusion control
they are warm—if so, you are essentially getting free heat, so insulating these can be provided by using semi-
walls may be to your disadvantage. The greater advantage may be in insulating permeable latex interior wall paint.
front and rear exterior walls from the inside.
From Exterior:
• Wood Structures. In historic wood buildings, there are numerous options to
blow in loose-fill insulation from the exterior of the wall. Infrared cameras or
thermal imaging can be used to verify whether wall cavities are adequately
filled. If you are recladding your building, adding rigid/board insulation
beneath the new cladding could provide immediate improvement to your LPC Permit Examples:
building’s energy performance. The benefits of adding exterior wall insulation exterior WALL Surfaces
will depend on the quality and extent of existing insulation materials as well
as the potential for impacting the moisture balance of the wall system. Be No Permit Required
aware that rigid insulation could negatively impact the proportions of exterior • Installing insulation at the interior
historic features such as the depth of opening and trim details. side of exterior walls
• Replacing or installing caulking
around wall penetrations and sealing
small holes
REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS
Permit Required
Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) Regulations • Installing exterior insulation
If your property is a City landmark or a building in a City historic district • Replacing or repairing masonry, siding
and other wall surface materials
Alterations or repairs to exterior walls and roofs may affect the character or
physical integrity of your building and its site, and typically requires LPC review. • Cleaning exterior wall surfaces
For example, adding insulation to exterior side of exterior walls or replacing wall • Applying coatings to exterior wall
or roof cladding will require a LPC permit; installing a white roof coating on a flat surfaces
roof or sealing around existing wall or roof penetrations will not require a LPC
permit.
Source: Landmarks Preservation Commission

Department of Buildings (DOB) Regulations

$ $ $
Appendix
Generally, larger-scale work such as altering or adding a building opening, or
enlarging the building, requires a building permit from the DOB. Ordinary repairs
A and maintenance such as cleaning, painting, and repointing do not require DOB
review or permits. If the work you are proposing requires a DOB permit, and your
property is a City landmark or a building in a City historic district, a LPC permit
will also be required. Certain types of work (alterations, renovations, or repairs),
related to the building thermal envelope, need not comply with the provisions of
the NYCECC if the applicant can demonstrate that such NYCECC compliance
would create a hazardous or unsafe condition, or would overload an existing
building system.
DOB Rule 101-14 establishes categories of work that may be classified as a minor
alteration or ordinary repair and therefore may be exempt from the permit
requirements of the New York City construction codes. If you are not sure whether
the work you intend to do requires a permit, consult the DOB web site, www.nyc
.gov/buildings, or call the DOB office in the borough where the property is located.
RESOURCES
Masonry repair techniques
State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), for best practices in preserving
historic facades
National Parks Service, includes the Secretary of the Interior’s Standard for the
Treatment of Historic Properties, which can provide insight on appropriate and
inappropriate alterations to historic building facades
www.cr.nps.gov/local-law/arch_stnds_8_2.htm
Preservation Briefs: www.nps.gov/tps/how-to-preserve/briefs.htm
Preservation Tech Notes: www.nps.gov/tps/how-to-preserve/tech-notes.htm
Roofs and heat island

NYC °CoolRoofs, program includes information and incentives on white or
green roofs
www.nyc.gov/html/coolroofs
Weatherization, Insulation & Air Sealing

Home Energy Saver is a do-it-yourself energy audit tool produced by Lawrence
Berkeley National Laboratory’s Center for Building Science
www.homeenergysaver.lbl.gov
Energy Star: Sealing Air Leaks provides guidance on sealing your basement
www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=diy.diy_sealing_basement
Building Science Corporation provides guidance and articles on wall assemblies,
insulation, and retrofits
www.buildingscience.com
Insulation Contractors Association of America (ICAA) can help you find a
qualified contractor to add insulation to your historic building
www.insulate.org
18
Walls & Roofs
North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) provides a

guide to different types of insulation, incentives, and industry developments $ $ $

www.naima.org
Renewable Energy Lighting & Electrical Heating & Cooling Key Resourc
Fireplace dampers. Lock-Top and Lyemance are the some of the better-known
insulating fireplace dampers
www.dukefire.com/lyemancedampers.html
National Parks Service provides information on weatherizing historic buildings
www.nps.gov/tps/sustainability/energy-efficiency/weatherization.htm
National Trust for Historic Preservation can provide help navigating the
competing demands of energy performance and historic preservation
www.preservationnation.org/information-center/sustainable-communities/
weatherization

Walls & Roof Plumbing & Water Windows & Doors Introduction
WINDOWS & DOORS

$ $ $
A According to the U.S. Department of Energy, doors and windows combined

account for 21% of a typical building’s air infiltration, which contributes to
increased heating and cooling costs and reduced comfort levels. New York City is
known for its hot, humid summers and long winter months where temperatures
often hover below freezing. Preventing air infiltration is key to keeping down
energy costs and maintaining a comfortable indoor environment year-round.
The good news is that there are many ways to make existing windows and doors
more energy efficient. Simple measures such as caulking, weatherstripping, and
upgrading deteriorated glazing minimize air leaks and reduce air infiltration.
Installing storm windows also improves the performance of existing windows.
Always consider repairing and enhancing doors and windows before replacement.
This will ensure that less material is wasted. Repairing historic elements will also
help retain the character of your building.
Key issues with windows and doors in historic buildings

• It is a common misconception that old windows which have deteriorated over
time must be replaced with new windows. In many cases, weatherizing and
repairing your existing windows may be more cost-effective.
• Improving energy efficiency must be considered in tandem with maintaining
the historic integrity of a building. Inappropriate window choices can
seriously damage the historic and architectural character of a building.
• Poorly installed or poorly maintained windows and doors represent a major
source of unwanted heat loss and discomfort and can lead to water damage
and other moisture problems in the walls of the building.
• Not all windows are made equally. High-performance windows and doors
are strong and durable with thermally broken frames for energy efficiency
and condensation resistance. Frames that are not thermally broken perform
less effectively and may not age as well because of continual damage from
Window Terminology. A typical wooden window has
condensation.
several components that affect a building’s thermal
insulation, solar heat gain, and airtightness. Upgrading
one or more parts of the window, even without OPPORTUNITIES—LOW/NO COST
replacing the entire window, can improve the energy
efficiency of a building. Secure window locks
• The head represents to top of the entire window. While locks on double-hung and casement windows provide security, they are
• The jamb supports the outer edge of the window. also a weatherization device. If a lock does not close completely, the window will
leak air. Secure all locks to maximize the seal and prevent unnecessary heating or
• The frame is the entire outer portion of the window in cooling losses. Replace locks that are damaged or missing.
which the sashes and other parts move.
• Glazing is any process or material applied to panes Weatherize windows and doors
of glass.
Reducing air leaks will make your home more comfortable, and also save energy—
• Panes are individual units of glass, divided by up to 30% per year (US Department of Energy). First determine the obvious air
muntin bars. leaks such as from window-mounted air conditioners, the gaps around windows
and doors after installation, windows that rattle, and daylight visible around the
• A sash is an entire assembly of panes and is the
frames. Insulation that is simply stuffed into cracks does not stop airflow. Check to
part that moves.
see if the existing sealant and weatherstripping were applied properly and are still
• The sill is the lower portion of the window, which in good condition. The following weatherization materials and methods will help
usually protrudes out from the wall. make your windows and doors more efficient:
• Muntin bars (also known as grilles or windowpane • Seal or reseal gaps and cracks. There are many sealants available and
dividers) separate individual panes. improper application is a common mistake. An inappropriate sealant may
not adhere to your building materials or could contribute to corrosion in the
Source: Grand Window and Repair long term. Know what materials you are working with before heading to the
20
Windows & Doors
hardware or building supply store. Read product labels carefully and ask for
guidance at the store. See chart for sealant types and details. $ $ $
• Add or replace weatherstripping to windows. A wooden window sash
may become loose and drafty overtime. An effective and low-cost way to A
cut air leakage through windows is to install weatherstripping. Although
weatherstripping is one of the least expensive components of a window,
proper installation and upkeep can increase energy performance significantly.
It is also minimally visible and does not affect window and door operability.
Weatherstripping is typically installed at the upper, lower, and meeting rails
of windows, and around the sash and frame. The type of weatherstripping you
use depends on the window; see the weatherstripping chart on page 23 for
descriptions.
• Add or replace weatherization to doors. To decrease air leakage below
doors, either add weatherstripping to the bottom of the door or replace your
threshold or door bottoms. Thresholds are generally installed to replace those
that have worn out; whereas door bottoms or sweeps are usually installed
in doors with no existing threshold or door saddle to provide a positive seal
against air movement. Weatherstripping should also be applied to interior
doors that lead to uninsulated rooms, such as a sunroom, attic, cellar, or
basement.
Weatherize other glazed building components

Weatherstripping and sealants can also be added to spaces that have storefront Air leaks. Older doors that have experienced daily use
windows, skylights, and overhead glazing systems as well as greenhouses. are likely to be worn down and dented, allowing air
to leak in and out. Wooden doors like the one showed
here are especially susceptible to degradation from
Remove paint to reclaim operable windows
moisture, snow and de-icing practices, and daily use;
Layers of paint on the sash and frame often make older windows difficult to they should be maintained regularly for optimum
operate over time. Scrape or strip paint layers off the window components and insulating performance.
reapply fresh paint or sealer to return the window to operable conditions. Use non- Photo © Terrapin Bright Green
toxic paint strippers and paints wherever possible. Old windows may have layers
of lead paint, so take the necessary precautions (see section on Indoor Health,
Housekeeping & Materials).
Sealants for windows and doors. Using the correct
sealant (caulk) for your particular application is
critical. The sealants in the chart below are for filling.
SEALANT (Caulk): Exteriors & Windows/Doors

Type Uses / Applications Cost Performance & Comments
Flexible, permits joints to stretch or compress. Get guidance
Seals most dissimilar building
Silicone: for proper sealant based on materials and application. Pay
materials such as wood and stone, High
Construction special attention for VOCs and instructions for products not to
metal flashing, and brick.
be used indoors.
Water-based foam production does not produce greenhouse
Spray Foam: gases. Will not over expand to bend windows (new
Around window and door frames in
(Latex) High construction). Must be exposed to air to cure. Not useful for
new construction; smaller cracks.
Water-based larger gaps, as curing becomes difficult. Guidance is suggested
for proper sealant based on materials.
Expands when curing; good for Flexible. Can be applied at variable temperatures. Must be
Spray Foam:
larger cracks indoors or outdoors. Moderate painted for exterior use to protect from ultraviolet radiation.
Polyurethane,
Use in nonfriction areas, as foam to High The maufacturing process for polyurethane spray foam
expandable
becomes dry and powdery over time. produces greenhouse gases.
Generally butyl rubber is not used
Moderate Seals dissimilar materials. Toxic; follow label precautions, and
Butyl rubber in residential applications, and is
to High do not use indoors.
used for example in sidewalks.
Information based on DOE EERE EnergySavers.gov

OPPORTUNITIES—MODERATE COST
$ $ $
Install storm windows
A
Installing storm windows over existing windows is an effective way to improve the
performance of older single pane windows. The insulating air gap created between
the primary window and the storm window helps insulate against noise and drafts,
prevent condensation, and save on heating costs. A 2002 study conducted by the
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory confirmed that installing a storm window
over an existing window can achieve a similar thermal performance to that of a
new low-E vinyl replacement window.
Interior storm windows are easier to install than exterior storm windows and are
not typically subject to regulatory approval. In addition, installing interior storm
windows will not disrupt important decorative details on the outside of your
building. Consult your energy audit to determine if adding storm windows will
significantly improve energy efficiency.
Take care to avoid damaging historic window frames when installing storm
windows. Storm window meeting rails and other divisions should match the
location of the same elements of the historic windows. Paint the storm windows to
match existing window frames to help diminish their visual impact.
Provide shading on windows

Adding the features outlined below to your building, especially on south-facing
Before exposures, can help regulate the amount of hot and cold air that filters into your
building.
• Interior window treatments. Interior shutters, blinds, and curtains can be
used on south-facing windows to block solar heat gain in the summer. In the
winter, heavy draperies will act as an additional thermal barrier from heat loss
and cold drafts. For improved comfort and energy efficiency, a multipurpose
window treatment strategy that allows breezes and daylight to pass through is
recommended.
• Exterior shutters. Historically, exterior shutters were designed to provide
security, privacy, and protection from the elements. In the summer they
effectively control heat gain while allowing ventilation. Where shutters are
being installed or replaced maximize your investment by making sure new or
repaired shutters are operable instead of fixed and ornamental.
• Window awnings. Retractable canvas awnings over doorways and windows
shield openings from rain and reduce interior heat gain by screening the sun.
Awnings should be retracted in the winter to maximize heat gain. Awnings
and other solar control devices may not project more than 2.5 feet from
the facade (or project more than 5 feet if the device is at least 8 feet above a
sidewalk), and cannot cover more than 30% of the exterior wall. Windows
that are highly exposed to sun throughout the day may benefit from additional
treatments. See the section on Sustainable Landscapes & Outdoor Amenities
for shading opportunities with deciduous trees.
• Window film. Window films on the interior face of the window can also
reduce heat gain and provide a low-e coating (see “Glass Pane Replacement”
on page 23 for explanation). While these films do not function as well as new
After
low-e windows, they are less expensive and easy to install. Films can also
be tinted, but since this can drastically reduce daylighting and view to the
Window replacement.
exterior, only the lightest tints should be considered.
Inefficient historic windows replaced with aesthetically
appropriate Marvin wood double hung windows.
Photos © David Cunningham Architecture Planning
22
Windows & Doors
OPPORTUNITIES—HIGHER COST
$ $ $
Glass Pane Replacement Renewable Energy Lighting & Electrical Heating & Cooling Key Resources Appendix
A
Proper glazing in a window frame, both the type of glass and how it is installed,
is one of the most important factors in maintaining a comfortable indoor
environment, controlling acoustics from the exterior, and managing utility bills.
The aesthetic impacts should be considered whenever undertaking window
replacement.
• Selecting an insulated glazing unit (IGU). Depending on your frame
configuration, you may be able to alter the wood rail of the sash and replace a
single-paned window with a double-glazed unit in the original frame. Another
alternative is to replace the entire window sash. Compared to single glazing Weatherstripping, or filling gaps in the building
envelope, can be done in a variety of ways. Some
common products are listed below.
Common Weatherstripping
Type Window use Door use Cost Performance & Comments
Moderate;
Inside the track Durable. Effective. Can increase resistance in
Tension seal Top and sides of varies with
of a double-hung opening/closing doors or windows. Ease of
(V-Shape) door material
or sliding window installation varies. Not visible.
used
Around a door; Easy to install. Low durability. Not very
fitted into a door effective in preventing airflow. Do not use
Felt Around window frame Low
jamb so the door where exposed to moisture or where there
presses against it is friction or abrasion. Not visible.
At window stops; Closed-cell foam an effective sealer. Rigid. Can
Reinforced At door stops; Moderately
bottom or top of be difficult to install. Very visible. Manufacturing
foam bottom of door Low
window sash process produces greenhouse gas emissions.
Top and bottom of
Door frames; good Extremely easy to install. Generally not very
window sash; attic
Tape for blocking corners Low durable but durability varies with material used.
hatches and
and irregular cracks Visibility depends on type and installation.
inoperable windows
Steel windows: double-
Steel doors, top and Relatively easy to install. Very effective air
Magnetic hung and sliding High
sides of doors sealer. Not visible.
window channels
Reinforced Moderate Installation may be difficult. Seals well. Not
On a window stop On a doorjamb
silicone to High visible.
Rolled or At window stops; At door stops;
Low to Easy installation. Visible although it comes in
reinforced bottom or top of bottom of door (rigid
Moderate varying colors.
vinyl window sash strip only)
Bottom interior side Relatively easy to install; many types are
of in-swinging door; Moderate adjustable for uneven threshold. Automatically
Door sweep –
bottom exterior side to High retracting sweeps also available, which reduce
of out-swinging door drag on carpet and increase durability. Visible.
Tubular Moderate Self-stick may be difficult to install. Effective
– Around a door
rubber or vinyl to High air barrier. Not visible.
Seal space beneath Moderate Installation moderately difficult. Durable. Can
Door shoe –
door to High be used with uneven opening. Visible.
Moderate Installation moderately difficult. Combination
Bulb threshold – Door thresholds
to High threshold and weatherstrip. Visible.
“Frost-brake” Seal space beneath Moderate Installation moderately difficult. Effective.
–
threshold door to High Visible.
Interlocking Around door Should be installed by a professional as
– High
metal channels perimeters alignment is critical. Very effective. Visible.
Information based on DOE EERE EnergySavers.gov

(one pane of glass), a double-glazed (two panes of glass) unit with an airspace
$ $ $ in between cuts heat loss in half due to the insulating effect of the airspace.
In addition, double-glazed windows will block more noise from the exterior.
A Double-glazed windows can change the appearance of the window from the
exterior due to a change in reflectivity of the glazing unit and/or the width of
the framing unit.
• Upgrading to a high performance window. A standard IGU, with double
glazing, is a typical modern window assembly. To meet current energy codes,
windows integrate low-e coatings, thermal films, and gases to improve
thermal performance.
›› The addition of a low-e coating to a window also offers a layer
of protection for interior finishes, artwork, or textiles. Low-e
coatings help cut infrared radiation losses, thereby lowering
the total heat flow through the glass area of a window.
Passive House windows example.
›› Reducing the conductivity of the air space between the layers of glass
Open Tilt/Turn Sash
Open tilt/turn window used for superior insulation in a can further improve the thermal performance of the window. Filling
Brooklyn Passive House. the space with a less conductive gas than plain air, such as argon or
Photo © 475 High Performance Building Supply krypton, minimizes the convection currents within the space, thereby
reducing the overall transfer of heat between the inside and outside.
›› In addition to inert gas-filled low-e windows, suspending a thermal film
Ken Levenson Architect, AIA, CPHD between the two panes of glass will further reduce thermal conductivity
and noise transmission. The film functions as an additional piece of
475 High Performance Building Supply glass, adding thermal efficiency, UV and sound protection, but without
April 16, 2012 excessive cost or weight associated with triple glazing. These units are
Page 7 of 12 slightly thicker than standard double-glazed window units and thus
may be more appropriate when replacing the entire window unit.
Thermal Bridges and Breaks Window Replacement

The Building Science Corp defines a If your window is in irreparable condition and must be replaced, there are several
thermal bridge as a material with higher factors to consider. If you replace particularly poorly performing windows, it may
thermal conductivity transferring heat offset other upgrade costs by lowering heating and cooling loads.
through an assembly with substantially
lower thermal conductivity. For
• Window frames and casings. There are several issues to consider when
example, a steel stud in a wall will replacing a window. The most cost-sensitive issue is typically the frame
transfer more heat than the surrounding material. Windows come in several material choices, with differing cost and
insulation, reducing the overall thermal aesthetics: wood, aluminum clad wood, aluminum, steel, fiberglass, and vinyl.
control of the system. Thermal bridging Typically, wood windows are the most appropriate for front facades of a
is also very common in historic steel historic rowhouse. Secondary (side or rear) facades present an opportunity to
frame windows. Whenever possible, opt Useother
use of Energy-Efficient
materials. Windows
for products with a thermal brake: an
component of low conductance (wood,
100%
rubber) placed between components of
higher conductance (metals) to reduce
Double- or Triple-pane glass
the flow of heat. 80%
Percentage of Windows
60%
40%
Trends in energy-efficient window use. Since the 1970s, Single-pane glass
the prevalence of double-pane and triple-pane windows 20%
has continued to increase, a trend that amounts to
more than 80% of new windows today.
0%
Source: US Energy Information Administration,
2009 Residential Energy Consumption Survey Pre-1940 1940s 1950s 1960s 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s
Year
Sources: US Energy Information Administration, 2009 Residential Energy Consumption Survey
24
Windows & Doors
When selecting a frame material, consider initial cost as well as durability,

Low-emittance (Low-E) coating

$$$
ease of repair, performance, and energy efficiency. Vinyl windows are not
durable or environmentally responsible, and should be avoided. Wood A thin, nearly invisible, metal or metallic
frames tend to have a higher upfront cost, but last several decades and can be oxide layer deposited on a window or
A
maintained and repaired with relative ease. Steel frame windows are durable, skylight glazing surface primarily to
but traditionally do not include a thermal break and therefore conduct cold suppress radiative heat flow. Low-E
temperatures, which can lead to condensation and make them less efficient coatings reduce a window’s U-factor
(see sidebar on Thermal Bridges & Breaks). In either case, look for frames thereby improving its insulation
that are thermally broken for the best performance and those that qualify for performance.
Energy Star® and tax credits (see www.efficientwindows.org).
• Operation. In historic buildings, it is most appropriate to match the original
window operation. For instance, a double-hung unit should be replaced
with a new double-hung unit. The homeowner should take care to look for
a window unit that offers a tight seal. The tightness is highly variable based
upon the manufacturing and installation quality. Typically casement windows
are considered the tightest units; however, double-hung windows can also be
effective when hardware is used properly and sashes are well maintained.
• Glazing. See the Glass Pane Replacement opportunity on page 23 for a
discussion of possibilities. For New York City’s climate double-glazed units
have become the industry standard. While triple-glazed (three panes of
glass) window units tend to have the highest performance in energy efficient
and noise cancellation, they are also more expensive. Triple-glazed window
units often use a suspended film as the third pane in order to achieve the
proper thermal values necessary to meet the Passive House standards
without the added weight of a third pane of glass. Passive House is a design
Sample NFRC Window Rating. The National
and construction methodology that aims to drastically reduce the energy
Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) provides reliable
consumption of a building. See the section on Rating Systems for more
assessments of window and door performance. When
information on Passive House.
replacing any opening in the building’s envelope,
• Sealing the window opening. Often overlooked, the window opening must compare ratings at www.nfrc.org. Select windows with
be properly framed and prepared to insure water- and airtightness. To the Energy Star® label may also be eligible for a tax
ensure water-tightness, properly detail and coordinate the flashing for both credit (www.efficient windows.org).
the window opening and the window unit. The air barrier should also be
continuous in the assembly. When determining the type of sealants consider
the cumulative effect of shrinkage and movement of the building components.
Door Replacement
If you replace particularly poorly performing doors it may offset other upgrade
costs by allowing for smaller heating and cooling loads.
• Doors and door frames. There are several issues to consider when replacing
a door. The most cost-sensitive issue is typically the door material. Doors
come in several material choices with differing cost and aesthetics: wood,
steel, hollow-core metal, or fiberglass. When selecting a door material,
consider thermal isolative value, acoustical properties, durability, security,
maintenance, up-front cost, and in some cases fire rating. Solid wood doors
and frames tend to be expensive up front, but last several decades and can be
maintained and repaired with relative ease. Steel doors are traditionally the
most secure, but unless they are insulated do not provide an acoustical barrier
or thermal insulation.
• Glazing. See the Glass Pane Replacement opportunity on page 23 for a discussion
of the possibilities. This information applies to glass doors.
• Sealing the door opening. All doors should have continuous weatherstripping
on the top and sides and at door sweep at the bottom. The door opening
must also be properly framed and prepared to insure water- and airtightness.
When determining the type of sealant to use, consider the cumulative effect
of shrinkage and movement of the building components and size the caulking
joints accordingly.

lpc Permit Examples: Other Glazed Building Component Replacement

$ $ $ Windows & Doors • Storefronts. For commercial spaces that have storefront windows, thermal
performance should be balanced with visual clarity of the window unit.
No Permit Required
A Glazing should have a visual transmittance of at least 80%. This can be
• Repairing (minor) original window or
achieved with low-e argon-filled double-glazed window units. Use thermal
door materials
broken frames whenever possible.
• Replacing or installing hardware on
windows or doors
• Skylights/overhead glazing systems. Many older homes include skylights
to bring natural light into central locations without windows and to provide
• Replacing glazing putty and broken ventilation. Older skylights benefit from regular repairs and maintenance.
glass Adding skylights will increase daylighting and decrease lighting costs.
• Replacing or installing Additionally, depending on its location, a vented skylight can increase
weatherstripping around windows or cross-ventilation. Procure low-e, double-paned, argon filled, glass skylights
doors and framing whenever possible. Less expensive plastic-domed skylights are discouraged as
• Replacing or installing caulking they typically have a short usable life, tend to discolor over time, and are not
around window or door framing, as energy efficient as glass units. Research skylight systems to make sure the
casings and trim chosen system provides redundant waterproofing.
• Repairing window suspension systems • Greenhouses. To function properly greenhouses need interior shading
or installing insulation sleeves in sash devices, proper ventilation equipment, and proper glazing. An architect
weight pockets should be consulted to identify the needs of your specific project.
• Installing most interior storm When a greenhouse-type wall and roof are open to the interior of the
windows or insulating panels with home, homeowners should be cautious when selecting glazing as it will
clear glass, including low-e significantly contribute to cooling and heating loads if not properly
designed. Glazing should be of the highest performance possible and
• Installing clear low-e films on
internal shades should be integrated to control glare.
windows or doors
Permit Required
• Repairing or replacing (extensive) Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) Regulations
original window or door materials
If your property is a City landmark or a building in a City historic district
• Replacing or installing windows or
doors Alterations to windows and doors may affect the character or physical integrity
of your building and its site, and typically requires LPC review. For example,
• Replacing or installing exterior storm replacing windows and doors or installing exterior storm windows will require a
windows or doors and some interior
LPC permit; caulking and weatherstripping around a door or window or replacing
storm windows
broken glass will not require a LPC permit.
• Installing tinted films (nonclear) on
windows or doors Department of Buildings (DOB) Regulations
• Replacing, installing or removing
Generally, larger-scale work such as altering or adding a building opening requires
exterior window shutters
a permit from the DOB. Installation of storm windows over an existing window
• Replacing or installing window or does not require a DOB permit and is a listed exception from complying with
door awnings the New York City Energy Conservation Code, but exterior storm windows will
require an LPC permit; see the LPC regulation section above. Ordinary repairs
and maintenance such as weatherstripping, replacing broken glass, or painting
do not require DOB review or permits. If the work you are proposing requires a
DOB permit, and your property is a City landmark or a building in a City historic
district, an LPC permit will also be required. If you are not sure if the work you
intend to do requires a permit, consult the DOB web site or call the DOB office in
the borough where the property is located.
In addition, Rule 101-14 of the Rules of the New York City (RCNY) establishes
categories of work that may be classified as a minor alteration or ordinary repair
and therefore may be exempt from the permit requirements of the New York City
construction codes. Rule 101-14 can be downloaded from the City’s web site (www
.nyc.gov/html/dob/downloads/rules/1_RCNY_101-14.pdf ).
26
Windows & Doors
ResoURCES
Solar heat gain coefficient$(SHGC)

$$
National Fenestration Rating Council provides performance ratings for many The fraction of solar radiation admitted
windows and doors through a window or skylight, both

A
directly transmitted and absorbed and
www.nfrc.org
subsequently released inward. The
Efficient Windows Collaborative, an industry group dedicated to promoting well- SHGC is expressed as a number between
insulated windows. Their web site includes information on window technologies, 0 and 1, whereby 1 is the maximum
weatherization assistance, and replacement guidance, as well as a window amount of solar heat gain that can come
selection tool and tax credits information for windows through a window and 0 is the least
amount. The lower a window’s SHGC,
www.efficientwindows.org the less solar heat it transmits, and the
National Trust for Historic Preservation web site includes the “Window greater its ability to block the heat from
Contractor Locator” tool the sun. An SHGC of 0.40, which is a
recommended maximum for New York
www.preservationnation.org/resources/homeowners City’s climate, means that 40% of the
Energy Star Doors, Windows & Skylights includes Energy Star-rated products available solar heat is coming through
the window.
www.energystar.gov
US Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program provides energy SHGC ratings express the performance
efficiency incentives rating for the entire window, not just the
glass; so two different frames with the
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/weatherization/apply.cfm same glass may have a different SHGC.
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) offers
low-interest loans and other incentives for homeowner renovations Glass can also be characterized by the
amount of solar heat it blocks:
www.nyserda • High solar gain
• Moderate solar gain
• Low solar gain
Moderate solar gain glazing is generally

preferred in New York City’s climate, but
it largely depends on the orientation of
your building. Windows on the south or
west facade may be suitable for low or
moderate solar gain, whereas north-
facing windows may be best suited for
high solar gain.
Sources: National Fenestration Rating
Council; Efficient Windows Collaborative,
www.efficientwindows.org

h & Housekeeping Rating Systems Incentives Sustainable Site Case Studies
$ $ $
able Energy Lighting & Electrical Heating & Cooling Key Resources Appendix
HEATING & COOLING

For every degree Before electricity was widespread, buildings were designed with passive
features to make living spaces more comfortable. Today original passive
you raise your AC
features are often underutilized, obstructed, or even eliminated to make way
thermostat you can for more modern technologies. In some cases new active (mechanical) systems
cut your electricity work better, but usually cost more and require more maintenance. In all
bill by 3% or more likelihood, the most appropriate solution for your building is a combination of
active and passive features:
The City of New York, Office of • Windows, including transom windows often located above exterior and
the Mayor, www.nyc.gov/greenyc
interior doors, offer natural light and airflow to enter and pass through a
building.
• The intentional alignment of windows and interior doorways encourages
cross-ventilation throughout the building.
• Awnings and other exterior shading devices reduce solar heat gain and reduce
cooling loads. See the section on Window & Doors for more information.
• High ceilings allow for hot air to rise up and away from occupants.
• Vented skylights provide ventilation in open stairwells, allowing breezes and
hot air to rise through the stairwell and out the skylight, and permitting cooler
air to flow through the living spaces.
• The thermal mass of masonry buildings helps manage solar heat gain,
leading to less energy use because of fewer spikes in heating and cooling
requirements.
These features combined with an efficient and properly sized mechanical system
should provide comfortable living conditions at reasonable cost.
Typical heating and cooling systems in pre-1940s buildings

If your building was originally heated by fireplace, wood stove, or coal-fired boiler,
it was probably retrofitted with its current energy system sometime in the last
half of the 20th century. Today historic rowhouses typically have either radiant
(using steam or hot water) or electric baseboard heating systems and electricity-
based window-mounted air conditioning (A/C) units. In some cases, a rowhouse
may have been extensively renovated to incorporate a central heating and cooling
system, typically with a heat pump.
Key issues with mechanical heating and cooling systems in historic buildings:
• Discomfort due to overheating. Design flaws and heat loss through windows
or other leaks in the building envelope can contribute to overheating systems.
A common solution for these problems is for building occupants to open
windows or run air conditioners even in cold winter months, needlessly
consuming energy.
• Discomfort due to underheating. Plug-in electric radiators are often used
to compensate for spaces without enough heating due to excessive drafts
or inadequate mechanical systems. These are relatively inefficient for space
heating and expensive to operate.
• Impact of other building components. The exterior walls, windows, and
internal heating loads (lighting, equipment, and people) alter the interior
temperature and humidity of the home, factors that are often inadequately
considered when selecting and sizing an HVAC system.
• Poor sizing of cooling systems. Often heating and cooling systems are
improperly oversized for the building energy loads, leading to discomfort and
excessive energy use.
28
Indoor Health & Housekeeping Rating Systems Incentives Sustainable Site Case Studie
$ $ $
Heating & Cooling
A
• Lack of controls. Older building heating and cooling systems often lack
appropriate controls, such as a thermostat, to monitor comfort levels and
reduce energy consumption.
ntilation
• Lack of maintenance. Once a heating and cooling system is installed, it is
commonly left unmonitored for years. Neglect often leads to premature loss
roach: of efficiency or system failure, whereas routine maintenance and repair help
 Dedicated ensure long-term
ventilation forperformance.
each unit.
 Balanced supply and exhaust
 OPPORTUNITIES—LOW/NO
Continuous filtered supply to living COST spaces
Before addressing your building’s mechanical system issues, take care of any
 Continuous exhaust at bathrooms and kitchens.
inefficiencies found in your walls, roof, windows and doors. See sections on Walls
 Free cooling
& Roofsbypass
and Windows– for when
& Doors forsummer
informationnights are cool.and related
on weatherization
 3 levels of ventilation: low, normal and high - allowing user control.
opportunities.
 Normal ventilation level to be .3 air changes per hour.
Set your thermostat to reduce energy bills
 Bathroom switch: for temporary high ventilation level
The simplest and most cost-effective strategy to improve your current heating and
 Continuous
coolingfiltered
systems isfresh air circulated
to set your thermostat noat lowthan
lower velocities
78 degrees throughout
in the summer the entire house means the house can
expect toandhave cleaner
no higher than 68 and
degrees healthier airIfthan
in the winter. thathave
you don’t outside.
a thermostat, your
utility company
 ERVs utilized may offer
to provide incentives for
relatively you toindoor
stable purchaseair
one.humidity levels.
 As windows
Maximizedo not need
benefits of passivetofeatures
be opened
and naturalfor “fresh air” but simply on those occasions when desired – the
ventilation The modern thermostat. New data technology allows
interior dust levels are significantly reduced.
• Maximize natural ventilation in the spring and fall. Opening doors and greater control over heating and cooling. Consider
windows at night will facilitate cross-ventilation and reduce the need for air upgrading thermostats to models that can be
conditioning. When moving or adding interior walls or doorways or even programmed, “learn” occupancy habits, or can be
furniture, be sure to maintain or improve upon cross-ventilation. Do not controlled remotely to allow systems to turn off when
obstruct existing ventilation paths, as it could make a once airy room stuffy. vacant and turn on before occupants arrive.
• Re-engage old openings and locate new ones to encourage cross-ventilation. Image credit: Creative Commons, some rights reserved
by Lars Ploughman
Consider how air flows on each floor, as well as how open stairwells and
skylights may impact whole-building airflows. Interior transom windows
found in older buildings are often undervalued or forgotten or have been
painted shut; utilizing these will help bring daylight and fresh air deeper
into the home. Depending on historical relevance, consider adding operable
transom windows to interior doors to optimize cross-ventilation and daylight.
Evaluate and adjust ventilation system

Proper moisture control and ventilation improve the effectiveness of air sealing
and insulation, and vice versa. Here are some rules of thumb for proper ventilation:
• Install exhaust vents near humidity sources in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Ventilate your attic with gables and soffit vents.
• Ensure all fuel-burning appliances have an adequate air supply and vent to the
outside.
Clean or replace air conditioner filters

Filters in air conditioners are rarely replaced as often as they should be. When a
filter becomes clogged the air conditioner has to work harder to achieve the same
temperature, which leads to higher electricity bills, more mechanical noise, and a
shorter life span. Clean or replace your filters at least once a year, at the beginning
of the cooling season.
Clean chimney and install and repair dampers to reduce heat loss Air filter replacement. Given the degree of urban soot
accumulated on this ERV supply air filter, it is being
Have your operable chimney cleaned regularly to minimize chances of a chimney replaced routinely to maintain a high quality of indoor air.
ntilation Diagram
fire. See section on Walls & Roofs for more information on reducing heat loss ERV Supply Air Filter (with city so
Photos © Ken Levenson Architect
through your chimney.

$ $ $
Utilize a humidifier in winter to increase comfort and protect historic finishes
In New York, low outdoor humidity compounded by radiant heating systems leads
to very low humidity levels inside the home. This can be damaging to historic
finishes, woodwork, and human health. A humidifier can be integrated into a
central heating system or installed in individual rooms to increase humidity to
more comfortable levels.
Insulate and recalibrate your boiler and hot water heater

• Lower the high temperature range. For each 10˚F reduction in water
temperature, you can save 3%–5% in energy costs.
• Insulate your boiler and hot water heater. When boilers or water heaters are
not in use they lose heat. Adding insulation to your water heater can reduce
standby heat losses by 25%–45%. This can save 4%–9% in water heating costs.
Install rigid insulation—a bottom board—under the tank of your electric water
heater. This will help save another 4%–9% of water heating energy and is best
done when installing a new water heater.
Install ceiling fans to increase comfort and reduce cooling loads

Ceiling fans are found in many historic buildings and are a good option to improve
air circulation. Select a fan with an efficient motor and blade design to maximize
efficient air movement. See section on Appliance & Plug Loads for information on
efficiency criteria for ceiling fans.
Upgrade your thermostat to respond to your needs

New, advanced thermostats are now available to help you save energy.
• Setback thermostats are designed to reduce conditioning by 3-10 degrees
when rooms are unoccupied, thereby conserving energy while maintaining a
Ceiling fans. Whenever possible, rely on passive space high degree of comfort.
conditioning and natural ventilation over mechanical
systems. Fans can often provide sufficient air • “Smart” thermostats use fine-grained data of your activities and learn
circulation to make the space feel more comfortable from them to predict your heating and cooling needs (e.g., NEST “smart”
at a given temperature. thermostat). Be sure to verify that the thermostat you choose is compatible
with your heating and cooling system. Thermostats can also be programmed
Photo: Public domain
to reflect user needs in order to maximize cost savings.
Seal ductwork
In buildings with central forced-air heating and cooling systems, ducts are used to
distribute conditioned air throughout the building. Typically about 20% of the air
that moves through ducts is lost due to leaks. The result is higher utility bills and
difficulty keeping the house comfortable, no matter how the thermostat is set. It’s
relatively easy to seal and insulate ducts that are accessible; however, sealing ducts
concealed in walls and above ceilings may require hiring a contractor and may
become costly when not part of a comprehensive renovation effort.
Install window treatments, exterior shutters and awnings

See section on Windows & Doors for benefits to heating and cooling.
Replace your window A/C units

Window and through-wall A/C units are prevalent in New York City. Window
and through-wall sleeved A/C units are often left in place throughout the year.
A/C units and PTAC (Packaged Terminal Air-Conditioning) units tend to leak air,
averaging about six square inches of leak area, primarily attributed to the “lack
30
$ $ $
Heating & Cooling
A
of long-term integrity in installation kits, and poor fit and sealing. . .” (Steven
Winter Associates). The best way to reduce energy loss from A/C units is to
improve the installation by hiring a professional installer and sealing gaps with
weatherstripping or closed cell foam.
New installations of through-wall A/C units are discouraged in historic buildings
as they damage the existing integrity of a building facade. There are many options
for replacing a window A/C unit. Some of the options include:
• A more efficient window A/C with thermostatic controls. See section on
Appliances & Plug Loads for energy efficient air conditioning units.
• A ductless A/C with a remotely located condenser with thermostatic controls.
How does your home compare? While the graph below
• A central heating and air conditioning system. See page 33 for “Install a
shows trends for newly constructed homes, you can
central heating and cooling system.”
see that those built before the 1980s are not nearly as
For additional tips on window A/C unit installations, the DOB offers a efficient as they could be today, despite the increase
downloadable flyer at www.nyc.gov/html/dob/downloads/pdf/install_ac.pdf. in square footage. Although it is easier to maximize
efficiencies in a new building, understanding the
Schedule routine equipment tune-ups and maintenance energy consumption of your historic building relative
to the national trend can help put energy retrofits in
Properly maintain heating and cooling equipment, including the boiler, by perspective. Imagine what your home could achieve!
scheduling annual cleaning and service checks to help ensure maximum efficiency
Sources: Based on data from the Energy Information
and reduce the risk of malfunction.
Administration, 2009 RECS Housing Characteristics:
Over time, radiators as well as solar heating systems can become less efficient. The Square Footage, and Environmental Building News
reasons for this could be many things, including damaged piping, broken valves or Graphic © Terrapin Bright Green
160 3,000
In the 2000s, New Houses
in the US Northeast
150 Averaged 3,000 Sq.Ft.
140 1978 Energy Code 2,500

138 BTUs
Average Finished Area (sq.ft.)

1973 Oil Embargo
130 In 2005,
New Houses in
of New Housing Units

120 the US Averaged
2,349 Sq.Ft. 2,000
Million BTUs per Housing Unit
110
100 1,500
In 1950, 101 BTUs
New Houses in the 2012 NYC
90 US Averaged 95 BTUs Energy Code
983 Sq.Ft.
80 1,000
1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010
70 Year
Improvement (Btu/sq.ft./yr)
Over 60: You have some significant savings opportunities; time to jump in!
Benchmarks for Energy
60 60
50–60: About average for single-family homes; you have some opportunities
50 50
40–50: You still have some low-hanging fruit left US EPA Energy
Star Standard
40 40
30–40: There’s some room for improvement, but it’ll be hard without a major exterior insulation retrofit Passive House
Standard
30 30
15 15–30: Excellent, but a stretch to reach net-zero energy Physicist Amory Lovins 15
15 or below: Outstanding! With some solar energy, you might get close to net-zero upgrades his Colorado home
0 to net-zero & carbon-neutral 0
0 or below: Net-zero Plus! Get paid to feed energy back into the grid
Sources: Based on data from the Energy Information Administration, 2009 RECS Housing Characteristics: Square Footage; Environmental Building News
Graphic © Terrapin Bright Green
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traps, or improperly sized replacement components. Contact a reputable heating
installer to balance your system. This effort should also eliminate any noises that
the radiators may be making.
Upgrade your bathroom and kitchen ventilating fans

Ventilating fans remove unwanted odors and moisture when operating, but when
not in use they can be an unwelcome hole. Keeping the damper and fan clean is
important to fan function and avoiding unwanted air leaks. An energy auditor can
test the flow of exhaust fans and determine if they meet the ventilation needs of
your home.
It is important to vent fans completely to the outside, not merely into the attic, and
to air seal the penetration of the exhaust duct from the fan as it passes through a
Window AC unit. This poorly installed air conditioner wall or attic. Keep the lengths of the ducts as short as is practical with no dips that
is not properly insulated and will leak air back into the could collect condensate. Avoid condensation by insulating ductwork that passes
building. through unheated spaces.
Photo © Terrapin Bright Green Turn on fans as necessary, such as in the bathroom before you start the shower and run
it for five minutes after your shower ends. For simplicity, directly wire your fan into the
light switch to ensure proper usage. There are many new high-quality exhaust fans on
the market. Look for a unit with a sone (noise) rating of 3 sones or less.
In addition, including a central heat-recovery ventilation system, also known as
an air-to-air heat exchanger, in your retrofit project will guarantee your home has
the ventilation it needs without having to reheat incoming fresh air. While energy
is exchanged, pollutants are not. Retrofit with a heat recovery system after your
home is thoroughly air-sealed.
Repair or replace your radiant heating system
A hydronic heating system, typical for detached homes in New York City, has
four components: boiler, distribution piping, radiators, and controls. Proper
sizing of each component is critical for efficient operation and comfort.
Strategies to consider:
• If you have a steam-based heating system, replace it with a water-based
radiant system, radiant floor heating, or a central system. The conversion to
a hot water based system can reduce heating costs by more than 30% (US
Department of Energy).
• Hire a reputable heating installer to balance your heat distribution system;
replacing some piping may be necessary.
• Install thermostatically controlled radiator valves (TRVs) to modulate the
boiler based upon the interior room temperature, instead of solely using the
exterior temperature as a gauge.
Upgrade to a cleaner-burning fuel

The majority of a home’s fuel use is for space heating. Many boilers in New York
City are fueled by No. 6 oil, which is highly polluting when burned. Replace boilers
that run on No. 6 oil with boilers that use natural gas if available, since it is the
cleanest option. If natural gas is not available, No. 2 fuel oil is the next best option.
There are several companies in New York City that handle boiler replacement.
See section on Fuel Efficiency & Renewable Energy for more information and
guidance.
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Heating & Cooling
Install a central heating and cooling system

If you are undertaking a large-scale renovation, you should consider installing a
heat pump system to provide both heating and cooling in a more energy-efficient
manner than your furnace and air conditioner. Because heat pumps move heat,
rather than generate heat, they can provide up to four times the amount of energy
they consume. Proper installation and operation of your heat pump will save
energy. Be sure not to run the indoor fan continuously and have a professional
technician service your heat pump at least once per year.
Types of systems:
• Air-source heat pump. Air-source heat pumps can deliver 1.5–3 times more
heat energy to a home than the electrical energy it consumes. In subfreezing
temperatures, air-source heat pumps with gas heating (rather than electric
resistance heaters) as a backup are able to overcome performance problems
typically encountered by heat pumps with no gas heating backup.
• Split-system heat pump. Retrofit with a split system if you have low ceilings
and little or no space for vertical and horizontal ductwork.
• Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV). VRV systems are able to provide
versatility among several units in a single building, whereby each indoor unit Central HVAC retrofits. A centralized heating and
may cool or heat independently of each other. cooling system with a heat pump can be four times
• Geothermal heat pump. Geothermal heat pumps use the constant more efficient at conditioning your home.
temperature of the earth as the exchange medium instead of the outside air Diagram courtesy of Ken Levenson Architect
temperature. They reach efficiencies two times higher than air-source heat
pumps. While geothermal is an expensive investment, it pays off very quickly.
Consult an engineer to determine whether your building lot is suitable for this
technology.
• Advanced features. Some heat pumps come with advanced features that
improve the system’s efficiency and noise control. Some examples include
two-speed compressors, variable-speed or dual-speed motors, heat recovery
systems, scroll compressor, and backup burners. Discuss these options with
your contractor to determine the most appropriate system and features for your
building. LPC Permit Examples: HVAC
No Permit Required
Zone your home
• Replacing or installing window A/C
Zoning your home allows you to heat and cool only the areas that you are using, units or fans that require only opening
while unoccupied portions of the home hover in a reduced mode to conserve a window sash and do not require
energy. Keep doors to unoccupied rooms closed (especially to basements and exterior brackets
attics) so that you are not heating or cooling more space than necessary. Zoning
• Replacing or installing caulking
requires a complex system of ductwork and dampers to control the flow of air and around A/C units, vents, and conduits
will be most cost-effective when implemented during a whole-building renovation.
Permit Required
Install solar hot water heating system to reduce heating demands • Replacing or installing window A/C
units or fans that require altering or
See section on Fuel Efficiency & Renewable Energy.
removing a window sash or require
exterior brackets
Install photovoltaic (solar electric) system to reduce electricity demands on the utility grid
• Replacing or installing central air
See section on Fuel Efficiency & Renewable Energy. conditioning systems that require
exterior equipment
REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS • Replacing or installing through-the-
wall AC units or vents
Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) Regulations • Replacing or installing split heating
If your property is a City landmark or a building in a City historic district and cooling systems that require
exterior equipment
Installation or replacement of mechanical equipment may affect the character or
Source: Landmarks Preservation Commission, LPC
physical integrity of your building and its site and typically requires LPC review. Tech Sheet, Chapter 4: Heating, Ventilation
For example, installing condensing units or through-wall A/C units and vents & Air Conditioning Equipment

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will require a LPC permit; repairing existing mechanical equipment will not
require a LPC permit.

Most mechanical work, such as the installation of boilers or rooftop mechanical
equipment, requires a building permit from the DOB. The DOB does not require
permits for installation of common window air conditioners. If the work you
are proposing requires a DOB permit, and your property is a City landmark or a
building in a City historic district, an LPC permit will also be required. If you are
not sure if the work you intend to do requires a permit, consult the DOB web site
or call the DOB office in the borough where your property is located.
City & State Regulations

Legislation from 2010 requires all City buildings of more than 10,000 square feet
to submit energy benchmarking data every year. Building renovations that involve
replacing energy-using systems must comply with the Energy Conservation Code
of New York State. See www.nyc.gov for more information.
RESOURCES
ConEd’s My Energy Toolkit provides online calculators to estimate your savings
when you “go green” and conserve energy. Calculators estimate savings for home
energy, appliances, television, CFL lighting, programmable thermostat cooling and
heating, and paperless billing.
www.coned.com/customercentral/calculators/EC_res.html
Energy Savers, a Department of Energy web site, has thorough explanations
of energy efficiency opportunities that apply directly to particular heating and
cooling systems
Department of Energy: Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy includes
information on hydronic heating and other building energy efficiency systems
www.eere.energy.gov
Energy Conservation Code of New York State. If you are making renovations that
include replacing your HVAC system, you may be required to comply with modern
energy efficiency codes
www.dos.state.ny.us/DCEA
energy efficiency resources and incentives to upgrade your HVAC system
www.nyserda.ny.gov
BuildingGreen, a web site with articles, case studies, and information about new
technologies
www.buildinggreen.com
Utility Companies will usually offer a variety of incentives to upgrade systems and
improve your building’s energy efficiency
www.coned.com/energyefficiency/residential_HVAC_program.asp
www2.nationalgridus.com/energy/index_ny_kedny.jsp
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Lighting & Electrical
LIGHTING & ELECTRICAL

Developing an effective lighting strategy should utilize natural daylight and In New York City, 27%
efficient electric light sources and technologies to create a comfortable and safe of our electricity is
environment. Utilizing maximum amounts of natural daylight is important to
energy efficiency and has been shown to positively impact human health, well- used to light buildings,
being, and productivity. User behavior patterns should also be considered when accounting for 12% of our
strategizing, as this has a big impact on energy consumption. overall carbon emissions
An energy audit is a great way to learn about your lighting and electrical options.
PlaNYC Update April 2011
Auditors survey existing lighting fixtures and lamps, including the wattage and
usage and then recommend replacement fixtures or bulbs. They can also project
the expected savings after new fixtures or lamps have been installed. Many energy
providers in New York offer audits and other incentives to help your make your
home more efficient. Explore several opportunities before committing to a strategy
that works best for you and your building.
Typical lighting systems and components

• Daylight: Recent research has shown that people experience positive
physical and psychological effects when natural (free) daylight is introduced
into a space.
• Incandescents: Most incandescent lightbulbs are inefficient. A typical
incandescent lamp converts about 10% of the electric current into visible
light, while the rest (about 90%) is released as heat. Recent federal legislation
requires greater efficiency in lighting that may reduce the availability of
incandescent lightbulbs.
• Halogens: Halogens can be used anywhere you would use incandescent bulbs,
for about 30% less energy. Just how big is the U.S.
• Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL): CFLs last about 5 times as long as lighting industry?
incandescent bulbs and use about 75% less energy. They are used primarily There are approximately 4 billion
indoors and are available in a wide range of color temperatures and shapes to lightbulb sockets in the US, including
fit different fixtures. residential and commercial buildings.
• High-Intensity Discharge (HID): HIDs have good color rendition, but short
lifespans. The US purchases about 2 billion
residential light bulbs a year or about
• Light Emitting Diodes (LED): LEDs last 10 times longer than CFLs (and can 5.5 million bulbs a day.
last 100 times longer than incandescent bulbs) and do not contain significant
amounts of mercury. They are a great noninvasive technology to use as The average US house has 45 bulbs in 30
they will not disrupt historic materials and character. LEDs can be best fixtures; with 116.9 million households
incorporated in accent lights, old fixtures and signage, but fluorescents are in the US (2006), that’s more than 5.2
still more appropriate for space lighting. billion bulbs.
• Indoor occupancy sensors: Occupancy sensors are a great way to save energy.
The average US electric rate is $0.1008/
They detect activity, turning on lights automatically when someone enters a
kWh, or about 10 cents (2006 data).
room and turning them off soon after the last occupant has left. Occupancy
Average US household use for lighting:
sensors are most appropriate for closets, hallways, and other areas that are
1,950 kWh per household (2002 data).
occupied for short amounts of time.
• Outdoor motion detectors: Motion sensors automatically turn on outdoor The US spends approximately $71
lights when they are needed (when motion is detected) and turn them off a billion a year in electricity on lighting,
short while later. They are very useful for outdoor security and utility lighting which is 22% of the total US electricity
provided by incandescent lamps. bill (2006 data).
• Lighting Dimmers: Dimmers are devices used to vary brightness. By
Data Sources: Department of Energy,
decreasing or increasing the mean power to the lamp, it is possible to control
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
the intensity of the light. Multipurpose spaces often call for varying amounts and Philips.
of light. Dimmers are not appropriate for most types of LEDs.

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Key issues with lighting and electrical wiring in historic buildings
Human Biology & Light
• Many older buildings have outdated electrical wiring that may be insufficient
Regular exposure to direct and indirect
for today’s electrical loads and use patterns, leading to frequent blown fuses
sunlight minimizes eye strain and
and increased potential for fire.
fatigue, supporting visual acuity
and color rendition, and provides a • Historic lighting fixtures tend to be less energy-efficient.
connection to nature that is intuitively
• User behavior directly impacts energy conservation. Leaving lights on and
perceived, despite the inherent
appliances plugged in when not in use can significantly increase a building’s
variability of daylight characteristics
energy consumption.
over time and weather. Appropriate
daylighting design in a building • Daylighting features in historic buildings are often undervalued for their
supports our biological intuition while capacity to maintain a lighting quality that promotes health and productivity,
minimizing the use of electric lighting. while minimizing a building’s lighting operational costs.
For lighting building interiors, it is

often important to take into account OPPORTUNITIES—LOW/NO COST
the color temperature of the lights used. The most effective lighting strategy uses a variety of measures, including
Preservationists often look for lights that daylighting, electric lighting technologies, user behavior patterns, and interior
match the warm color of incandescent finishes and treatments. Many of these opportunities can be implemented at little
light and daylight. The human eye to no cost.
naturally dilates and contracts, and
registers full-spectrum light. For example,
a warmer (yellow) light is typically used
Assess user behavior
in areas that promote relaxation, such as User behavior is vital to lighting efficiency. Get into a routine of turning off your
a living room or library, while a cooler lights when you leave a room and avoid turning on electric lights when there is
(white/blue) light is used to enhance sufficient daylight. Wash windows—especially those facing heavily trafficked
concentration in offices. streets—to maximize daylight entering your home.
Light color is also shown to impact our

Conduct a bulb survey and upgrade to more efficient bulb types
health, particularly conditions governed
by our circadian rhythm, which manages • Examine your light fixtures. Light levels decrease over time because of aging
estrogen levels. Exposure to cool light lamps and dirt on fixtures, lamps, and room surfaces. Together, these factors
in morning and warm light in evening can reduce total illumination by 50% or more, while lights continue drawing
largely reflects natural daylight, but when full power.
we switch the colors around, such as by
• Examine the wattage size and type of the lightbulbs you have in your building;
surfing the internet (computer screens use
where appropriate, replace with bulbs that are more efficient. Your electric
a blue light) for an hour before bedtime,
utility provider may offer rebates or other incentives for purchasing energy-
we inadvertently throw off our circadian
efficient lamps.
rhythm. In addition, studies have shown
a connection to blue light exposure and • Incandescent lights should be turned off whenever they are not needed. Only
breast cancer. Lighting technologies are about 10% of the electricity that incandescent lights consume results in light,
still working to master the varying color and the other 90% is turned into heat. Turning lights off will keep a room
temperatures, and more options are cooler and save energy.
becoming commercially available.
• Unlike incandescent lights, the operating life of a fluorescent light is affected
For more information on human biology
by the number of times they are switched on and off. It is more cost-effective
and light, see Stevens, RG. Light-at- to turn off a fluorescent light if you leave a room for more than 15 minutes. In
night, circadian disruption and breast other words, if you leave the room for less than 15 minutes, it will generally be
cancer: assessment of existing evidence. more cost-effective to leave the lights on.
International Journal of Epidemology, • Properly recycle or dispose of lightbulbs. Some bulbs contain trace amounts of
Aug 2009; 38(4):963–970 mercury and are considered a hazardous waste. CFLs and ballasts should be
recycled for their glass and metals content. GrowNYC provides information
on where to recycle used bulbs (www.grownyc.org/cfl). Ballasts containing
PCBs should also be disposed of properly.
• Purchase “low-mercury” lamps that the EPA has categorized as non-
hazardous waste and that do not have to be handled separately (www.epa.gov/
osw/hazard/wastetypes/universal/lamps).
36
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Conduct a daylighting assessment

Use a light meter to find opportunities for improved daylighting penetration into
a space. A daylighting assessment can help you identify where you might position
a desk or reading chair, and where you would most benefit from expanding,
modifying or re-engaging existing openings.
• Maximize daylight penetration to minimize electric energy usage. Utilize
direct and indirect sunlight to reduce your total building energy costs.
Take advantage of existing skylights, clerestory windows, glazed transoms,
dormers, false dormers, light shelves, and prisms to bring daylight deep into
your building, minimizing the need for daytime electric lighting. Disengaged
skylights, such as those covered to minimize maintenance or to conform Light meters. A daylighting assessment conducted
to public safety blackout laws during World War II, should be re-engaged. with a light meter will reveal the spaces with the most
Interior clerestory windows are often undervalued or forgotten as a strategy natural daylight. This information allows you to arrange
for bringing daylighting deeper into the home. If clerestory windows are artificial lighting to focus on dim areas and install
painted opaque, try to repair the original design intent by allowing light to daylight-responsive lighting near windows.
pass through. Operable clerestory windows also support cross-ventilation. Photo credit: Creative Commons, some rights
reserved by Matt Biddulph
Use light-colored finishes and paints
Lighter colors will reflect light deep into a space and will minimize glare caused
by sharp contrasts between floor and wall surfaces and sunlight or bright indoor
lights. For more opportunities on using window treatments to control daylight
penetration, see section on Windows & Doors.
Common lighting technologies. When replacing
lightbulbs, consider which technology is most
appropriate for the application. Lighting varies in terms
of level and quality of light, energy efficiency, and
durability.
Efficacy Lifetime Color Rendition Color

lIGHTING TECHNOLOGY Application
(lumens/watt) (hours) Index (CRI) Temperature
Incandescent & Halogen Bulbs
Standard "A" bulb 10–17 750–2500 98–100 (excellent) Warm Indoors/outdoors
Energy-Saving Incandescent
12–22 1,000–4,000 98–100 (excellent) Warm to Neutral Indoors/outdoors
(or Halogen)
Reflector 12–19 2000–3000 98–100 (excellent) Warm Indoors/outdoors
Fluorescent
Straight tube 30–110 7000–24,000 50–90 (fair to good) Warm to Cold Indoors/outdoors
Compact fluorescent lamp
50–70 10,000 65–88 (good) Warm to Cold Indoors/outdoors
(CFL)
Circline 40–50 12,000 62–70 (fair) Warm to Cold Indoors
High-Intensity Discharge (HID)
Mercury vapor 25–60 16,000–24,000 50 (poor to fair) Warm to Cold Outdoors
Metal halide 70–115 5000–20,000 70 (fair) Cold Indoors/outdoors
High-pressure sodium 50–140 16,000–24,000 25 (poor) Warm Outdoors
Light-Emitting Diodes (LED)
Cool White LEDs 60–92 25,000–50,000 70–90 (fair to good) Cold Indoors/outdoors
Warm White LEDs 27–54 25,000–50,000 70–90 (fair to good) Neutral Indoors/outdoors
Sources: US Department of Energy “Types of Lighting,” National Electrical Manufacturers Association “Lighting Options for Your Home,” and Rensselaer
Polytechnic Institute’s Lighting Research Center.

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lighting control strategies OPPORTUNITY—MODERATE COST
& potential Cost Savings
Install electronic ballasts
Not all lighting control strategies have the same benefits;
and while some strategies are stand-alone, others Replace all magnetic ballasts with electric ones. Electronic ballasts serve up to
perform better when integrated with others. Depending four lamps, do not hum or flicker, and will save approximately 40% in electric
on the cost of the system, the labor required to install lighting costs. Use long-lasting lamps in hard to reach places to keep cost and
a system, commissioning costs, the appropriateness of maintenance down.
the application, and user behavior, considerable energy
savings may be possible. Review the table (below) and Install shading devices
chart (right) for an overview of strategies and costs, Utilize shading devices, curtains, and blinds to provide flexibility with lighting
and consult with a lighting expert to determine the best design. This will better regulate the level of interior light in your home, and will
strategy for you and your building. allow you to maximize natural daylight when it is available and minimize glare.
Technology & Use Savings
Install energy-efficient lighting fixtures
Timers up to 40%
When replacing existing fixtures, consider fixture design and spacing for
Dim and turn off lights when rooms are efficiency. Install fixtures with electronic ballasts that can be dimmed to maximize
unoccupied daylighting. These ballasts can dim down to about 10% of full light output. When
Photosensors up to 20% switching to electronic ballasts, you should also switch to T5 (5/8" tube diameter)
Adjust electric light levels to take or T8 (8/8" or 1" tube diameter) lamps, which deliver 80–100 lumen/watts. Choose
natural light into account these over the T12, which deliver 50–65 lumen/watts and use magnetic ballasts.
Occupancy sensors up to 40%
Install interior lighting controls
Automatic controls based on occupancy
detection There are several lighting control devices that can be installed to improve
energy efficiency. Use dimmers to manually adjust the light levels coming from
Vacancy sensors up to 45% a particular fixture, or use controls with set commands. Occupancy sensors
Manual-on based on need; Automatic use infrared, ultrasonic or microwave technology to respond to movement or
off based on vacancy detection surface temperatures to automatically turn off or dim the light when a room is
Task Tuning up to 20% unoccupied. Take advantage of automatic-off settings to save energy when there is
Dim lights to reduce max light levels
for each space LIGHTING CONTROL STRATEGIES: PERCENTAGES OF TOTAL COST
Personal control up to 10%
Wireless Full Dimming Total Capital Costs
Individuals set light levels to suit
personal preferences Total Commissioning Costs
Source: Adapted from “The Value of Wireless
Total Energy Costs
Lighting Control,” Daintree Network Wireless Partial Dimming
(www.daintree.net)
Addressable Ballasts
Conventional Dimming Panel
Conventional Relay Panel
Localized Control
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 120%

Source: Daintree Networks
38
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sufficient daylight. Timers can be installed to turn off lights on a set schedule when
spaces are known to be unoccupied.
Use a radio-frequency (RF) wireless control technology to save energy through
single-button control of lighting and plug loads, while enhancing the aesthetics
of your indoor space. Integrating RF controls with occupancy and time-based
controls will also save energy. First-cost savings for wireless systems are
potentially significant, with higher equipment costs offset by the reduced labor for
running wires.
Refer to the section on Appliances & Plug Loads for electrical efficiency
monitoring opportunities. Daintree Networks also offers a series of downloadable
articles on lighting controls, including a wireless control cost study for lighting
retrofits (www.daintree.net/lighting/library.php).
Install energy-efficient exterior lighting and controls

Exterior lighting should help you safely and comfortably access your building, lighting Sensors:
parking area, and rooftop or backyard amenities, while minimizing light pollution Occupancy vs. Vacancy
to preserve the purity of the night sky. Existing fixtures may be retrofitted with
shields to reduce light pollution or replaced with fixtures designed to minimize Occupancy-based controls fall into two
light pollution. Exterior lighting should cover only the intended areas, directed categories—occupancy sensors and
downward, and installed as low to the ground as practical. Take advantage of vacancy sensors.
outdoor lighting that uses solar cells (clean regularly to ensure performance
levels); these fixtures are energy-efficient and low profile, and many do not require Occupancy sensors
automatically turn
wiring. Install controls to regulate when exterior lighting is used. Because utility
the lights on as soon
lights and some security lights are needed only at night and people are present,
as you enter a room.
a combination of motion sensor and photosensor is often recommended. The
When your presence
Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) Lighting Handbook
is no longer detected,
has recommendations on luminance levels and uniformity ratios.
the lights turn off.
OPPORTUNITIES—HIGH COST Vacancy sensors

are a variation of
occupancy sensors;
Upgrade electrical system and wiring
however, instead of automatically
Worn connections in junction boxes, outlets, or circuit breaker boxes can cause turning on when you enter a room
points of resistance, excess heat, and hazardous conditions. Sometimes rewiring or you must manually turn the lights on.
tightening the connection in outlets will solve the problem. In other instances you When you leave the room the sensor
can abandon your old wiring. Updating to a modern electrical panel can improve detects your absence and automatically
the function of your home’s electrical system. If you need to upgrade the capacity turns the lights off. The manual-on
of your electrical system, contact a licensed electrician. See the DOB information operation has several benefits and is
on page 40 for guidance on finding a licensed electrician. ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms, and
other applications that experience
• Conduct an energy audit to test the circuits and find points that need natural daylighting. The logic behind the
corrective work, such as rewiring, retrofitting, or a full system upgrade. manual-on function is that often you may
• Use a circuit analyzer to measure wire resistance in outlets during the energy need to quickly enter into your bathroom
audit and recheck it after repair work to ensure the wires were not affected. or office that is well daylit to retrieve
something and not need to turn on the
• Recircuit where necessary to control large groupings of lights in correlation lights, thus saving energy. If you need
with daylight dimming, rather than for control in individual spaces. the lights on, you have that option and
• Replace old fuse boxes with modern service panels equipped with circuit the sensor will automatically turn the
breakers. lights off once you leave.
• Update to a modern electrical panel to improve efficiency and safety. Strongly
Some sensor technologies have an option
consider replacing the whole system in the baseboards instead of the walls to that allows you to configure them as
keep the historic character of your building intact. either an occupancy or vacancy sensor.
Vacancy sensors maximize energy
Use an energy management system to shed non-critical loads savings and are particularly effective
In homes and apartments, there are internet-based tools to help you manage your on applications where you are unable
to install or have opted out of installing
energy usage for lighting. These energy management systems monitor lighting and
high-efficiency light sources.

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appliance energy usage and can develop tools to reduce electrical consumption
Upgrading historic light fixtures
when these components are not in use. See section on Appliances & Plug Loads for
Electric lighting is often used to highlight more information.
interior details such as ceiling accents
and plasterwork. Existing historic
fixtures may be retrofitted with compact REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS
fluorescent lamps, LEDs, high-efficiency
incandescent lamps, and other sources Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) Regulations
that increase output and energy efficiency
(including reducing waste heat); most
upgrades can be made without affecting In general, the material in this section is limited to the interior of the building and
the appearance of the fixture. does not require LPC review. However, installation or replacement of exterior light
fixtures may affect the character or physical integrity of your building and its site,
To improve efficiencies of smaller and typically requires LPC review. For example, repairing existing light fixtures
or delicate fixtures in a manner that or installing energy-efficient bulbs will not require an LPC permit, but installing a
does not disrupt the aesthetic, use less light fixture at an entrance door or within an areaway will require an LPC permit.
invasive lighting technologies such as
LEDs. These lights can also be placed
in alcoves, sconces or on cornices to
enhance the lighting aesthetic in an Most electrical work such as rewiring, electrical panel replacement, or upgrade
energy-efficient manner. See resources requires a building permit from the DOB, filed by a licensed electrician. Generally,
below for more guidance on upgrading the DOB does not regulate removable electrical devices in the interior, such as
historic light fixtures. See section on plug-in light fixtures or appliances. If the work you are proposing requires a
Indoor Health & Housekeeping. DOB permit, and your property is a City landmark or a building in a City historic
district, an LPC permit will also be required.
Licensed Electricians and General Contractors: Before hiring a professional, check
the DOB listing to make sure the individual has a valid license within New York
City. Conduct a search for Skilled Trades Licensees or General Contractors at the
DOB (site http://a810-bisweb.nyc.gov/bisweb).
City & State Energy Codes

The City requires energy benchmarking for publicly owned buildings over 10,000
sf. The City requires all buildings to install high-efficiency lighting by 2025.
RESOURCES
ConEd’s My Energy Toolkit, provides online calculators to estimate your savings
when you “go green” and conserve energy. Calculators estimate savings for CFL
lighting.
Energy Savers, a Department of Energy web site with product information and
energy saving tips.
www.energysavers.gov/your_home/lighting_daylighting/index.cfm/
mytopic=12030
Energy Star provides information about Energy Star–rated appliances.
www.energystar.gov; see also the Energy Star Building Upgrade Manual:
www.energystar.gov/ia/business/EPA_BUM_Full.pdf
Green Light NY, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting energy-efficient
lighting through education, training, and design assistance:
www.greenlightny.org
General Services Administration, Guidelines for Upgrading Historic Building
Lighting provides technical advice on designing a lighting strategy.
www.gsa.gov/graphics/pbs/TechnicalGuideLightingFINAL2.pdf
40
$ $ $
BuildingGreen includes articles, products, and case studies.

Lighting Controls Association, an industry group that offers advice on energy-
saving lighting controls.
www.lightingcontrolsassociation.org
Whole Building Design Guide, a resource for daylighting, electric lighting,
electrical safety, and more.
www.wbdg.org/resources
Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) for the most recent
edition of the IESNA Lighting Handbook.
www.iesna.org

es & Plug Loads Walls & Roof Plumbing & Water Windows & Doors Introduction
PLUMBING & WATER EFFICIENCY

$ $ $
A
New York City’s While New York has a famously clean and abundant gravity-fed potable water
wastewater treatment system, the energy intensity of water is growing. Recent federal regulations have
required the City to install an ultra-violet (UV) sterilization plant to protect
system handles 1.3 against bioterrorism; this has resulted in a substantial increase in the energy
billion gallons of needed in the potable water system. Incorporating efficient plumbing fixtures in
water every day. your home will minimize water usage which will help reduce consumption and
lower your water bills.
New York City Department of
Environmental Protection Key issues with plumbing and water efficiency in historic buildings
• New York City has long struggled with its combined sewer system that
releases partially treated sewage into the rivers during rainfalls of more
than 1/10 of an inch. Buildings with leaks, wasteful fixtures, and washing
appliances are major contributors to this overflow problem.
• Lead pipes in water lines were banned in New York City buildings in 1961, and
lead soldering was banned in 1987. However, the prevalence of original lead
piping today is unknown, and some buildings built before 1961 may still have a
lead pipe plumbing system.
• Plumbing fixtures, such as toilets and faucets that were installed before 1992
when the US government passed the Energy Policy Act, are likely to be less
efficient than current legislation mandates.
• User behavior has a major impact on domestic water consumption.
Operational practices can significantly impact a building’s water wastage.
• Plumbing in historic buildings that has fallen into disrepair can cause
significant water leaks. This is an indoor environmental health quality
problem (see the section on Indoor Health, Housekeeping & Materials), as
well as a structural problem caused by deterioration in ceilings, walls, and
floor materials.
50-75% of residential Monitor water use and associated costs
water use occurs in • Ensure faucets and fixtures are turned off. Eliminate dripping faucets.
the bathroom. One faucet that drips 5 times per minute will waste more than 14 gallons of
potable water each month. Use the US Geological Survey online calculator
New York City Department of (see Resources for web site) to determine how much water your leaky faucets
Environmental Protection waste over time. If faucets are difficult to turn off completely, it may be time
for a new fixture.
• Monitor your meter regularly. Ensure that water is used efficiently. By
reading your water meter and your water bills, you will realize how much
water is being used in the house and how much you save once you have
implemented some of the opportunities mentioned here.
• Alter user behavior to lower water consumption. Run water-intensive
appliances during off-peak hours, such as after 9pm. Wait until the dishwasher
and clothes washer are full before running them. Avoid bathing and running
appliances during a rainstorm, so as to limit impact on the sewer system.
Detect potential leaks early on

Routinely check for leaks and reapply caulk around sinks and bathroom fixtures
when necessary. Look for signs of water buildup, such as staining, bubbling
under paint or wallpaper, and deterioration of wall surfaces. New York City’s
Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) offers free water leak surveys
42
Plumbing & Water Efficiency
to most City water and sewage customers. Early detection of wet spots and Indoor Health & Housekeeping Rating Systems Incentives Sustainable Site Case Studie
examination by an experienced contractor will help minimize potential damage $ $ $

caused by water leaks inside the walls and ceilings, and ensure the long-term Renewable Energy Lighting & Electrical Heating & Cooling Key Resources Appendix
structural integrity of your home.

A
Maintain toilets Caulk for indoor Household use
Reducing the amount of water consumed by bathroom toilets is a relatively simple The caulks listed below are for interior use. To select
way to conserve. an appropriate caulking material, discuss with a hard-
ware store its application and the materials adjacent
• Detect and stop leaks. Leaky toilets can waste thousands of gallons of water
to it in your home. If you have a joint larger than 0.25"
each month. Most hardware stores carry leak-detecting color tabs at little to
a backer rod should be installed. See the section on
no cost.
Windows & Doors for exterior applications and for
• Replace water flapper in toilet tank. The flapper is the rubber mechanism sealing doors and windows.
that seals water in the tank and allows it to exit the tank when you flush. Over
time the flapper becomes worn and does not work effectively to stop leaks.
Replace a worn-out flapper with a new one. Consider water-saving flappers Silicone
that time the filling of the toilet bowl to reduce overall consumption. Flappers Uses: Joints between bath and kitchen
are simple to install and can be found at hardware stores at low cost. fixtures and tile. Seals metal joints in
plumbing.
• Reduce the volume of water in the toilet tank. To reduce the amount of
water necessary for a toilet to function, you can insert a filled bottle, a brick, Cost: Moderate to High
or another large, noncorrosive object to displace the water that fills the Performance: Flexible. Allows
tank. This way, when toilets flush, less water is needed to fill the tank to the watertight seals. Not paintable
necessary level. Be sure your placement of the object does not interfere with
the proper functioning of the water flapper. Latex Caulk
Uses: Seals joints around tub and shower.
OPPORTUNITIES—MODERATE COST Fills cracks in tile, plaster, glass, and
plastic; fills nail holes.
Replace inefficient toilets Cost: Moderate
• Select a high-efficiency toilet. Older toilets can use up to 7 gallons per flush. Performance: Not as durable and less
It is best to replace these inefficient toilets with more water-efficient models. elastic than some silicone or specialized
Some of the more efficient models use 1.6 gallons per flush, or have dual flush sealants. Easy to use. Water resistant when
capabilities that use smaller amounts of water for liquid waste than for solid dry. Can be painted. Varied durability,
2–10 years. Will not adhere to metal.
waste. Look for the EPA’s WaterSense label when shopping for a new fixture.
Install high-efficiency faucets

Some historic faucet fixtures do not comply with federal flow standards. Since 1999,
new faucets are subject to federal flow standards and not New York State standards.
There are several options to reduce water use and comply with standards:
• Aerators: Installing an aerator on the tip of your faucet spreads the water
stream into many little droplets, reducing the water flow. This allows you to
retain the style of the existing faucet while reducing water consumption.
• Fixtures: Federal regulation mandates that new faucets cannot flow more than
2.5 gpm at a water pressure of 80 pounds per square inch (psi). For bathroom
sinks, select replacement faucets that use 1.5 gallons per minute (gpm) or less.
Look for the EPA’s WaterSense® label when shopping for new fixtures.
• Faucet sensors: A faucet sensor uses a motion detector to turn water on
and off and is an effective way to curtail water use without any additional
effort. Many sensor-controlled faucets are also low-flow varieties.
Install water-efficient showerheads

Bathing is a primary source of water consumption in the home; there is also a fair
amount of energy use associated with heating water. To improve the water and
energy efficiency of your shower, install higher-efficiency showerheads or aerators.
• Aerators: Installing aerators on showerheads reduces the amount of

water necessary to achieve the same flow rate. This can be done whether
$ $ $ or not the fixture is replaced. However, it should be noted that aerators

in showers produce more mist, and can be linked to moisture problems if
A there is poor ventilation.
• Efficient showerheads: A standard showerhead uses one gallon of water in
less than 20 seconds. Using low-flow showerheads of less than 2.5 gallons per
minute can reduce the amount of water used in the shower by 50%.
Regular showerheads take Upgrade domestic hot water system (DWH)
less than 20 seconds to Waiting for the hot water to reach the showerhead wastes tens of gallons of
use one gallon of water. water. Water, energy and time can be saved by using more efficient means to heat
and deliver your domestic hot water. To determine which option is best for your
US DOE Ad Council home, consider the age and efficiency of your current system, the available space
for the new options, available fuel supply, and hot water demand. A licensed
plumber can help you determine the best match for your home. Hot water
heating options include:
• Thermal control valves: A self-acting thermal control valve controls the
temperature of your water when you specify a temperature, eliminating
the need to manually mix hot and cold water until you reach a comfortable
temperature. This eliminates a great deal of water waste, since the valve sets
the temperature with a minimum amount of adjustment.
• Tankless hot water heaters: Tankless hot water heaters heat water only as you
need it, avoiding the waste associated with storing water in tanks until it is
used. Switching to an Energy Star certified tankless hot water heater can save
up to 30% on water heating costs.
• High efficiency DHW boilers: Switching to a high efficiency, gas powered
boiler for domestic hot water heating purposes can save you money on
operating costs, and the small increase in up-front cost will generally pay itself
back within two years. Energy Star certifies high-efficiency gas storage boilers,
as well as gas-condensing boilers. See the sections on Appliances & Plug Loads
and Heating & Cooling for more information on high efficiency boilers.
Install Energy Star-rated appliances

Energy Star certifies clothes washing machines, dishwashers, dehumidifiers, and
water coolers for their level of efficiency. Energy Star–certified appliances are
generally more water and energy efficient. For instance, a full-sized Energy Star
clothes washer uses 14 gallons of water per load, compared to the 27 gallons used
by a conventional machine. The Energy Star web site has a full list of qualified
appliances (www.energystar.gov). See the section on Appliances & Plug Loads for
more information on specific appliances.
Replace lead piping

If your building’s plumbing system has not undergone a comprehensive renovation
since 1961, there is a possibility that lead may still be present in your plumbing
system. Hire a lead abatement professional to replace any lead pipes or lead
soldered pipes with lead-free alternatives, such as cast iron, copper, or other
code-compliant options. Avoid PVC products that use phthalate plasticizers. See
the section on Indoor Health, Housekeeping & Materials for more information on
occupant health impacts of building products containing lead and phthalates.
44
Plumbing & Water Efficiency
$ $ $
Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) Regulations Renewable Energy Lighting & Electrical Heating & Cooling Key Resources Appendix

A
In general, the material in this section is limited to the interior of a building and
does not require LPC review. If the work you are proposing requires a DOB permit,
and your property is a City landmark or a building in a City historic district, an
LPC permit will also be required.

Any plumbing work beyond simple repairs and direct replacement of existing
fixtures with a same-type fixture, like an existing faucet with a more efficient
faucet, requires a plumbing permit. All work must be performed by an New York
City–licensed master plumber. For work requiring a permit, the master plumber
must apply for and receive a permit prior to the commencement of any work. If
the work you are proposing requires a DOB permit, and your property is a City
landmark or a building in a City historic district, an LPC permit will also be
required.
RESOURCES
US Environmental Protection Agency WaterSense® program includes certified
fixtures and appliances
www.epa.gov/WaterSense
US Environmental Protection Agency Energy Star® program includes rated
appliances, including washers
www.energystar.gov
NYC Department of Environmental Protection, on lead in household plumbing
for information about what to do if you suspect lead in your water supply
www.nyc.gov/html/dep/html/drinking_water/lead_faq.shtml#A4
NYC Department of Environmental Protection also offers leak detection services
and other programs for City water customers
www.nyc.gov/html/dep/html/residents/index.shtml
US Department of the Interior’s US Geological Survey, provides an easy calculator
for determining how much water your leaking faucet wastes over time
http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/sc4.html
NYC Department of Buildings provides a searchable database of licensed
plumbers
http://a810-bisweb.nyc.gov/bisweb/LicenseTypeServlet?vlfirst=Y

APPLIANCES & PLUG LOADS

$ $ $
A
Appliances, lamps, Lamps, appliances, electronics, window air conditioners, and other gadgets that
electronics and other consume electricity are known collectively as the “plug load,” and account for
up to a third of your building’s electricity consumption. It is therefore important
gadgets that are plugged that these items are efficient and well managed. The most efficient appliances
into an electrical outlet meet or exceed a voluntary standard, such as the US EPA’s Energy Star program,
(also called plug loads) which far exceeds federally mandated standards. Efficient management of plug
account for up to 34% loads involves energy-conscious usage behaviors or control devices that keep your
energy bills low without altering your lifestyle.
of a home’s electricity
consumption. Key issues with appliances and plug loads
EPA, EnergyStar.gov • Plug loads and peaker plants: Buildings that do not efficiently and effectively
manage plug loads unnecessarily contribute to “peaker” plant operation.
Peaker plants are turned on during the summer months when electrical
demand peaks and regional power plants cannot keep up. Peaker plants
provide a boost of energy to the grid, but are generally older facilities with
inefficient systems that release large amounts of carbon dioxide into the
atmosphere.
• Repair vs. replace: Older appliances help retain the character of a historic
building; however, if manufactured before 1990 they are likely to be
particularly inefficient. Repairing old appliances does not necessarily improve
their efficiency. It is relatively easy to find new appliances that consume
at least 20% less energy than industry standards, so it is typically better
to replace inefficient large appliances, such as refrigerators and washing
machines. Replacing old refrigerators is not as environmentally harmful as it
used to be. It is now common practice to strip them for scrap materials and
recycling, lessening the impact of disposal.
• Wiring: Wiring in older buildings may not be able to accommodate the
increased energy use of modern-day electronics and appliances. Before
installing major new appliances, verify the wiring and circuits can support the
equipment. Inadequate wiring can damage equipment or cause electrical fires.
See the section on Lighting & Electrical wiring issues and opportunities.
• Freon: Freon is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), a toxic chemical that was
once common in refrigerants and aerosol sprays. It is known to deplete
the stratospheric ozone layer and have negative impacts on the indoor
environmental quality of your building. As a result of the Montreal Protocol
(1987), this group of chemicals is being phased out of various industries.
Nevertheless, safe and appropriate disposal of Freon is still a concern; see the
section on Indoor Health, Housekeeping & Materials for more information.
• User behavior: A major variable in appliance-driven energy demand is user
behavior. Energy conservation practices, controls, and plug load management
Vampire Loads tools can reduce the energy intensity of our buildings and our utility bills. This
Vampire loads, or phantom loads, in turn reduces the overall demand on the electricity grid, which is especially
represent electricity continually important in August when the potential for brownouts and blackouts in New
drawn by equipment and devices York City is at its highest.
that are plugged in, but not in use.
Phone chargers, televisions, computer OPPORTUNITIES—LOW/NO COST
monitors, printers, stereos and coffee
makers all contribute to your vampire
load when they are in standby mode or Observe your habits, change your behavior
even turned off. This wasted energy adds Observe you and your family’s behavior to identify operational or usage practices
up fast. Reducing your vampire load can that could altered to increase energy savings.
cut electricity costs without sacrificing
comfort or convenience. • Small appliances and electronics: Use the energy-saving mode on all
appliances and electronics when possible. Use items less frequently and
46
Appliances & Plug Loads
Appliances & Plug Loads Walls & Roof Plumbing &
Refrigerator Energy Use Trends Relative to Volume, 1947–2010

Indoor Health & Housekeeping Rating Systems Incentiv
$ $
2000 25 Renewable Energy Lighting & Electrical Heating & C
1800
Energy Policy Conservation Act of 1975
Average Energy Use per Unit Sold (kWh per year)
1600 20
Energy Star
typical unit
1400 1978 California Standard
Refrigerator volume (cubic feet)

1200 1980 California Standard 15
1000 National Appliance Energy
1973 Oil Embargo

Conservation Act of 1987
800 1990 Federal Standard 10
1993 Federal Standard
600
400 2001 Federal Standard 5

Energy Star
typical unit
200 1982 Top of 2000 Top of 2009 Top of
the Line Unit the Line Unit the Line Unit
= 85 BTUs = 61 BTUs ~ 20 BTUs
0 0
1960 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010
Year
Data Source: Adapted from “Efficiency: Energy for the Future” by Arthur Rosenfeld
during
Graphicoff-peak hours,
© Terrapin Bright Green such as in the late evening. Appliances and electronics Energy efficiency standardization. Due to regulations and
that draw more than one watt, especially computers and cell phones, should market forces, appliances have become dramatically
be connected to power strips, making the habit of turning off these devices an more efficient in recent decades. If your refrigerator
easy one to develop. Small appliances not connected to a power strip should was bought in the 1970s, it is likely one of the most
be unplugged when not in use for extended periods of time. Minimize use inefficient models ever commercially available.
of plug-in radiators and electric blankets or set them on timers. Plug load Data source: Adapted from “Efficiency: Energy
management tools can also be purchased and installed around the building’s for the Future” by Arthur Rosenfeld; Photo
interior to limit vampire loads (see sidebar on page 46). source: House and Garden, June 1955
• Refrigerators: Set refrigerator thermostats to keep frozen food at 0–5˚F and
the fresh food compartments at 36–40˚F to ensure food safety. Thermostats
set at lower temperatures waste energy by keeping food unnecessarily
cold. Place your refrigerator away from a heat sources such as your oven or
dishwasher so it doesn’t have to work as hard to keep cool.
• Boilers: Reduce your boiler’s hot water temperature setting and use a timer on
your boiler to reduce wasteful water heating. For each 10˚F reduction in water
temperature, you can save 3%–5% in energy costs.
• Washing machines: Wash in cold water, when possible. Since 90% of the Though larger, today’s
energy used for washing goes to heating water, switching your temperature annual kWh per
setting from hot to warm can reduce your energy consumption by 50%. refrigerator is nearly the
• Clothes dryers: Energy Star does not label clothes dryers because most clothes same as it was in 1947.
dryers use the same amount of energy. Limit the amount of energy used by your
dryer by using the moisture sensor option, which automatically shuts off the Current models are up to
machine when the clothes are dry. Make sure to regularly change the dryer filter
25 times more efficient.
and the exterior exhaust filter to ensure that extra energy is not needed to cycle
air through the machine. If your clothes washer has spin options, choose a high Arthur Rosenfeld, “Efficiency:
spin speed or extended spin option to reduce the amount of remaining moisture, Energy for the Future”
minimizing the drying process before putting your clothes in the dryer.

Energy Star Equipment

$ $ $
Equipment What to do when it’s time for an upgrade or replacement
A Full-Size Replace old refrigerators, especially if they contain Freon.
Refrigerators Replacing a fridge from the 1980s could save $100 a year in
electricity or $200 a year, if it is from the 1970s.
(≥ 7.75 ft3)
Full-Size Compared to modern, conventional freezers, Energy Star
Freezers models are 10% more efficient. A freezer from the 1980s costs
Energy Star equipment. Energy Star–rated products $70 more in energy each year than a new Energy Star model.
use at least 20% less energy without sacrificing (≥ 7.75 ft3)
performance. Consider purchasing Energy Star–rated Compact Compact refrigerators and freezers typically use less energy than
products in any of the categories. Refrigerators full-size models, and can be a better choice for residential units
and Freezers occupied by only one or two people.
(< 7.75 ft3 and ≤ 36” in height)
Top and If your washing machine is more than 10 years old, it is best
Front-loading to invest in a front-loading clothes washer, which is far more
Clothes Washing water-efficient than a top-loading washer. A front-loading
Machines machine uses 18 to 24 gallons per load less than the average
top-loading, which uses approximately 40 gallons.
Standard-sized Replacing a dishwasher purchased before 1994 could save
Dishwasher $40 a year on energy and 10 gallons of water per cycle, when
switching to a new Energy Star model.
(≥ 8 place settings + 6 serving pieces, ≥ 24” in height)
Common Efficiency Metrics Compact-sized Compact models generally use less energy and water than
Dishwasher standard-size machines, and are best suited for residential
Metric Description spaces occupied by only one or two people.
(< 8 place settings + 6 serving pieces, 18" in height)
Modified An industry-wide energy
Energy efficiency metric used Air Conditioners Replace central units that are more than 12 years old with
Factor to compare relative (central) Energy Star models that are up to 30% more efficient.
(MEF) efficiencies of different (size varies)
clothes washers. Air Conditioners Replace inefficient window units that are more than 12 years
Water An industry-wide metric (room) old with Energy Star models that are up to 10% more efficient.
Factor that evaluates water (size varies)
(WF) efficiency. The higher the Dehumidifiers If your dehumidifier requires replacement, replace it with an
MEF, the more efficient Energy Star–certified model, which is 15% more efficient than
the clothes washer; the standard models.
lower the WF, the more (size varies)
efficient the clothes
washer. Light bulbs Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent
lightbulbs (CFL) or LEDs. These are 75% more efficient than
Seasonal A measure of equipment incandescent, and can save $40 over the lifetime of each bulb.
Energy energy efficiency, over Energy Star certified lightbulbs provide a wide range of light
Efficiency the cooling season, of quality and amount of light (measured in lumens).
Ratio cooling equipment. The
(SEER) higher the SEER, the Light fixtures Replace inefficient or very old light fixtures with Energy Star
more energy efficient the fixtures. They use 75% less energy than conventional fixtures,
appliance. distribute light more evenly, and include an above-industry
standard, 3-year minimum warranty.
Energy A measure of the
Computers A computer meeting Energy Star specifications will use
Efficiency instantaneous energy
between 30% and 65% less energy, depending on how it is used.
Ratio efficiency of cooling
(EER) equipment. The higher Boilers Replace inefficient boilers or ones that run on No. 6 oil with
the EER, the more energy Energy Star certified gas burning models. These are 6% more
efficient the appliance. efficient than standard models. If a natural gas line is not
available on your street, upgrade your boiler to run on No. 2 oil.
Common efficiency metrics. “Energy Efficiency” can be
a difficult concept to quantify because energy is used
in different quantities, over different periods of time, to
perform many different types of work.
48
Appliances & Plug Loads
Recycle or safely dispose of unwanted appliances

The City of New York will pick up old appliances along with your other metal
$ $
recycling. To ensure that appliances containing chemicals such as Freon (e.g.,
Renewable Energy Lighting & Electrical Heating & C
refrigerators and dehumidifiers) are disposed of in a safe manner, schedule an

appointment for a separate pick up. Consult New York City’s “Waste Less” (www
.nyc.gov/html/nycwasteless) and Energy Star’s (www.energystar.gov) web sites
for recycling guidance for refrigerators and freezers, clothes washers, lightbulbs,
electronics and other appliances.
OPPORTUNITIES—MODERATE/HIGHER COST
Install energy efficient appliances
On average, home appliances comprise 13% of the household electricity use.
Studies show that in most households, refrigerators tend to use the greatest
amount of energy. To improve the energy efficiency of your appliances by 20–
40% select Energy Star–labeled products. The Energy Star program certifies a
number of appliances and electronics, including refrigerators, washing machines,
dishwashers, air purifiers, dehumidifiers, air conditioners, televisions, computers,
and battery chargers. See the Energy Star Equipment chart for more information.
Additionally, when choosing new appliances, ensure that your building’s electrical
wiring and plumbing can accommodate the size of your new appliance.
Install plug load management equipment and software

Using plug load monitoring systems is a good way to closely monitor your energy
consumption. These systems monitor energy use at the individual plug point.
Plug load management devices. In the average home,
The systems then feed this information into a software package that analyzes it
75% of the electricity used to power home electronics
for you. Many such products also recommend schedules whereby appliances are
and appliances is consumed while the products are
automatically powered off and on by the software according to your use patterns.
turned off.
There are several devices available for low cost that
REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS allow you to digitally program and monitor your plug
loads. Plugging several devices into a power strip
Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) Regulations allows you to cut the power supply without unplugging
If your property is a City landmark or a building in a City historic district each device. Other tools can monitor usage patterns
and make recommendations for reducing energy
In general, the material in this section is limited to the interior of the building and consumption through changes in programming and
does not require LPC review. If the work you are proposing requires a DOB permit, user behavior. See EnergyStar.gov.
Photos: Think Eco (above); Creative Commons,
some rights reserved by mccun934 (left)

The DOB does not require a permit for plug-in appliances; however, rewiring,

upgrading electrical panels, or other related electrical work is regulated under

$ $ $ the Electrical Code. Hire a New York City licensed electrician to advise, file for an
electrical permit, and perform this work.
A
RESOURCES
ConEd’s My Energy Toolkit, provides online calculators to estimate your savings
when you “go green” and conserve energy. Calculators estimate savings for home
energy, appliances, television, CFL lighting, programmable thermostat cooling and
heating, and paperless billing.
Energy Savers, a Department of Energy web site with product information and
energy saving tips
Energy Star, for efficient appliances, recycling programs and other guidance
www.energystar.gov
NYC Bureau of Waste Prevention, Reuse & Recycling
www.nyc.gov/html/nycwasteless
a variety of energy efficiency resources and incentives
www.nyserda.ny.gov
Department of Energy: Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy includes resources
and advice for reducing your energy consumption
www.eere.energy.gov
BuildingGreen, a web site with articles, case studies, and information about new
technologies
50
Indoor Health, Housekeeping & Materials

$ $
INDOOR HEALTH, HOUSEKEEPING
& MATERIALS
A healthy indoor environment promotes physical comfort and well-being. The average American
Achieving a healthy indoor environment depends on appropriate ventilation, the spends 90% of their time
selection of high-quality building and fit-out materials and proper cleaning and
maintenance practices. Environmentally responsible, low-toxin, or toxin-free indoors, but the indoor
remodeling and housekeeping practices are the foundations of a healthy indoor environments we create
environment. are often less healthy
than the urban outdoors.
Key issues with indoor health and housekeeping
High-quality indoor air, access to daylight and views, and the materials and
products used to build and clean our living spaces all impact our health and
well-being. However, conventional perceptions of what makes urban architecture
and interior design desirable and livable have overlooked and undervalued our
connection to nature and the services it provides. As a result, many older buildings
have been retrofitted in a manner that disconnects inhabitants from nature,
often diminishing the building’s capacity to support healthy living conditions by
minimizing daylight, perpetuating mold growth, and exposing us to various toxins.
Some products and materials can reduce the indoor environmental quality of
your home. Typically indoor air quality deteriorates when these materials are
introduced to your living spaces and emit unhealthy chemicals that are suspected
or are known to be toxic to humans.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemical gases emitted from solids and
liquids. VOCs, some of which are proven carcinogenic, are emitted by a wide
array of materials and products found throughout the home, including paints and
lacquers, paint strippers, varnishes and wax, cleaning supplies, pesticides, building
materials, carpeting, fabrics and furnishings, office equipment such as copiers and
printers—these all contain organic solvents. Key signs or symptoms associated
with concentrated exposure to VOCs include eye irritation, nose and throat
discomfort, headache, allergic skin reaction, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting,
nose bleeds, fatigue, and dizziness. All of these products can release organic
compounds while you are using them and, to a lesser degree, when they are stored.
Due to the age of many historic buildings, they may contain toxins that are widely
acknowledged today, but were not known to cause any bodily harm at the time of
installation. These particular toxins, such as lead and asbestos, are normally found
in building materials rather than household cleaning supplies.
Common household toxins that impact our health

The following list covers several common household toxins that are known to be
unhealthy today, but may exist in historic buildings that have not been recently
renovated. It also covers toxins that can be found in more modern products. While
this manual refers primarily to materials that you can find in building materials,
interior finishes and consumer products, it is important to note that these
chemicals can be found in many cosmetic products. For more information, see the
Environmental Working Group’s web site (www.ewg.org).
• Allergens and particulate matter can accumulate indoors if there is not
adequate ventilation. Much of this particulate matter can be attributed to
outdoor smog, while our shoes track in dirt and other contaminants.
• Asbestos was widely used from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s in fire-
retardant coatings, concrete, bricks, pipes and fireplace cement, pipe
insulation, ceiling insulation, fireproof drywall, flooring, and roofing.
Asbestos was found to be a carcinogen in the 1970s; however, buildings
that have not been heavily renovated may retain some quantity of asbestos.

Greening New York City’s Historic Buildings Rowhouse Owners Manual

$ $ $
• Bisphenol A (BPA) is an organic compound widely found in adhesives,
A protective coatings, paint, piping, epoxy resins, wire/electronic sheathing, and

polycarbonate plastic products. Studies have shown that BPA can accumulate
in the bodies of rats and amphibians, causing significant hormonal imbalances.
Many scientists believe BPA has a similar effect on humans. The Canadian
government has labeled BPA a toxic substance, and European legislation bans
the use of BPA in certain consumer goods, such as baby bottles. No ban on BPA
in plastic consumer goods has been issued in the US.
• Freon, or chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), is found in many older refrigerators,
freezers, air conditioning units, and dehumidifiers. Outlawed by the Montreal
Protocol, this ozone-depleting chemical weakens the immune system and
increases the risk of skin cancer.
• Halogenated and brominated flame retardants are found in fabrics, plastics,
foams, insulation, carpet backing, epoxy and resins, kitchen appliances,
housing paints, and electrical devices. Incorporated for their anti-
inflammatory properties, these chemicals are suspected to be carcinogens,
hormone disruptors, and neurobehavioral toxins.
• Lead in paint was banned in 1999 due to its link to childhood lead poisoning,
and historic buildings that have not been heavily renovated may retain some
quantity of lead piping. Lead is also commonly found in flashing and roofing,
radiation shielding, solder, and electrical cable jacketing.
• Mercury is a metal that was once commonly used in lamps and thermometers,
and is still used in batteries and some types of lamps. It can also be found in
HVAC controls, electrical components, paint, flooring, medical equipment,
and switches and relays. Improper disposal of mercury can lead to human
exposure. Mercury buildup in our body and prenatal exposure can result in
deficits in language, attention and memory.
Precautionary Principle
• Perfluorocarbons (PFC) are ozone-depleting chemicals that increase the
Many definitions of the precautionary risk of skin cancer. Studies show that PFCs accumulate in human tissue very
principle exist, but above all, the quickly. PFCs are commonly found in stain protecting fabric treatment, fire
principle is an expression of a need extinguishers and refrigerants.
to anticipate harm to humans and • Phthalates are a group of chemicals that are used as plasticizers in PVC
the environment before it occurs. plastics, among many others. They can be found commonly in pipes, conduits,
The 1998 Wingspread Statement waterproofing, roofing, siding, door and windows, resilient flooring, carpet
from the Science & Environmental backing, wall covering, signage, window treatments, furniture, and wire
Health Network frames the cable sheathing. In 2010, the EU partially outlawed the use of certain types
principle as follows: of phthalates over the next three to five years. Due to suspicions that they are
“When an activity raises threats of carcinogenic, as well as developmental and reproductive toxins, phthalates are
harm to the environment or human being phased out of many products across the country.
health, precautionary measures should • Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a type of plastic that is widely found in consumer
be taken even if some cause and effect products. The potent carcinogen dioxin is created in the production of
relationships are not fully established PVC, which can cause health problems such as cancer, hormone-related
scientifically.” disorders, birth defects, impaired childhood development, reproductive and
The Precautionary Principle is used immune system damage. PVCs are also made with phthalates (see above), a
in public health and environmental group of chemicals that aid in plasticizing PVC and other types of plastics,
decision making in the absence of and which are a suspected carcinogen. PVC can be found in pipes, conduits,
scientific consensus that an action waterproofing, roofing, siding, door and windows, resilient flooring, carpet
or policy is harmful. The term backing, wall covering, signage, window treatments, furniture, and wire cable
“precaution” carries the sense of sheathing.
foresight and preparation, and not • Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that is formed naturally in bedrock.
merely “caution.” Implementing the It can travel up through the ground to the air and into your home through cracks
principle in the material and product and holes in the foundation. In buildings with poor ventilation, radon gas can
selection process of your renovation build up to levels that can be dangerous to human health. The EPA estimates
project promotes transparency in that radon is responsible for 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year, second only
industries that affect your health and to smoking. Radon primarily enters buildings through basements or cracks in
the environment. concrete floor slabs, but also through well water or municipal water.
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• Urea-formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and asthma trigger. It is widely
found in composite wood products, insulation, furniture, and adhesives.

A historic building is likely to have some urea-formaldehyde content in
its materials due to age. Fortunately, there are many formaldehyde-free
alternatives available on the market today that can be installed in renovations.
Use doormats to limit the introduction of dirt, allergens, and outdoor debris
Doormats are one of the easiest and lowest-cost opportunities for maintaining
healthy indoor conditions. A majority of the dirt, particulates, and debris that enter
your home through your main door are carried in on your shoes. Well-maintained
door mats could improve indoor air quality and reduce the need for cleaning.
Purchase products that prioritize health and environmental responsibility

Consider using the precautionary principle as a guide (see sidebar) when selecting
home office supplies, cleaning products, air fresheners, toilet paper and paper
towels, carpeting, furniture, food, and beverages. Doormats. Many of the common toxins found in homes
• Choose products that are made of nontoxic ingredients. Make sure that are unknowingly introduced from the outside. Simple,
cleaning products and detergents do not contain phosphates, which timeless solutions like doormats limit the amount of
contaminate wastewater. Choose ammonia-free cleaners that are less toxic to unwanted material entering your home, and cut back
humans. on cleaning time.
• Avoid ingredients such as chlorine and glycol ethers, and air fresheners that Photo credit: Creative Commons, some rights
reserved by F. C. Photography
emit toxic VOCs. Explore nontoxic, alternatives to conventional household
cleaners: use vinegar in place of bleach, baking soda to scrub your tiles, and
hydrogen peroxide to remove stains. When maintaining wooden floors or
fixtures, use natural oils instead of abrasive chemicals.
For more information, refer to the list of chemicals above in the beginning of this
section, as well as the web sites of the Environmental Working Group (www
.ewg.org/chemindex), which provides a chemical index, and Perkins+Will (www
.transparency.perkinswill.com), which provides good reference lists, including the
Precautionary List, Asthma Triggers + Asthmagens, and Flame Retardants.
Practice environmentally responsible product disposal

• Electronics: New York City has community recycling initiatives through
which you can safely dispose of unwanted electronics. New York State now
requires manufacturers of covered electronic equipment to collect their
products from residents and small businesses, and reuse or recycle them for
free. You can also locate “SAFE” disposal events, run by the New York City
Department of Sanitation and various manufacturers. The New York City
Department of Sanitation is a great resource for information on additional
ways you could dispose of electronics.
• Lamps/Lightbulbs: Safely dispose of fluorescent lamps, which contain toxic
amounts of mercury, as well as high-intensity discharge (HID), neon, mercury
vapor, high pressure sodium, and metal halide lamps, through the New York
Department of Environmental Conservation. For guidance on recycling
and programs available in your neighborhood, contact your local municipal
solid waste agency directly. For additional information, visit the web sites of
Earth911 (www.earth911.org) and the US EPA (www.epa.gov/bulbrecycling).
• Other hazardous household materials: Unwanted paints, pesticides,
automotive fluids, hobby chemicals, cleaning products, thinners and strippers,
batteries, acids/bases. Contact the New York Department of Environmental
Conservation for instructions on how to safely dispose of these materials.
• Unused or expired medications: Disposing of expired or unused prescription
drugs by putting them in the trash, flushing them down the toilet, or


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pouring them down the drain can be harmful to fish and other wildlife and
A
Proper disposal of prescription their habitats. Follow the guidelines set forth by the U.S. Food and Drug
medications: Administration (FDA) and the White House Office of National Drug Control
Follow any specific disposal instructions Policy (ONDCP) for the proper disposal of prescription medications (see
on the drug label or patient information sidebar).
that accompanies the medication. Do
not flush prescription drugs down the Identify and mitigate naturally occurring pollutants
toilet unless this information specifically • Mold and mildew: Mold and mildew are linked to respiratory illness and if
instructs you to do so. found should be removed. Check for mold and mildew in locations where
water leaks are likely to occur.
If no instructions are given, throw the
drugs in the household trash, but first: • Radon: Concentrations of radon vary tremendously from building to
Remove the drugs from their original building, and testing is the only way to know if you and your family are at
containers and mix them with an risk from radon. Professional companies can conduct a radon test, or simple
undesirable substance, such as used coffee self-test kits are available for under $50. Because radon levels can vary
grounds or kitty litter. The medication inside a building seasonally, accurate results may require testing over a nine
will be less appealing to children and pets, to twelve month period. If you find high radon levels (>4.0 pCi/L), install a
and unrecognizable to people who may radon detection and mitigation system (such as an efficient heat recovery
intentionally go through your trash. ventilator); increase ventilation rates and seal cracks in the basement floor,
walls and joints.
Put the drugs (or the mixture of drugs
with an undesirable substance) in
a sealable bag, empty can, or other OPPORTUNITIES—MODERATE/HIGHER COST
container to prevent the medication from
leaking or breaking out of a garbage bag. Utilize nontoxic materials and products for all new interior finishes
• Interior Paint: Use low-VOC or no-VOC paint, dyes, stains, and finishes to
Take advantage of community drug
provide better indoor air quality for occupants. Low-VOC and no-VOC paint
take-back programs that allow the
options have become mainstream and are usually at the same price point as
public to bring unused drugs to a central
location for proper disposal. Call your
traditional paints.
city or county government’s household • Furniture, upholstery and wall coverings: Look for textiles and products that
trash and recycling service to determine are sustainably grown and harvested and made from renewable materials.
if a take-back program is available in Cotton upholstery and FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified wood are
your community. good options. Make sure that the materials you chose minimize your exposure
Source: FDA and ONDCP to VOCs, or any of the chemicals listed in “Common household toxins that
impact our health” earlier in this section.
• Flooring and finishes: Choose composite wood, agrifiber products, and
laminating adhesives that contain no added urea-formaldehyde resins. These
products include particleboard, medium density fiberboard (MDF), plywood,
wheatboard, and strawboard. Use zero- or low-VOC adhesives and sealants to
provide better indoor air quality. Choose materials that have low reflectance
or are glare-resistant.
High-VOC content is still the norm in clear wood finishes, but depending
on the application you can minimize exposure while maximizing durability.
Use FSC-certified wood for millwork and regularly maintain floors and
millwork (especially if they are historic) with natural oils rather than abrasive
chemicals. For new millwork use rapidly renewable materials where feasible.
Remove or isolate existing toxic substances

• Repair vs. Replace: Unless an indoor finishing contains a known toxin, it
should be repaired instead of replaced. To restore wood finishes or flooring,
use nonabrasive materials, such as natural oils.
• Remediation of mercury: Since many historic buildings, particularly those
that have not been recently renovated, contain mercury in its building
materials and household products (see page 51 for information on common
household toxins that impact our health); replace these items with mercury-
free alternatives, many of which are widely available and cost-effective.
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• Remediation of Freon: If your household appliances contain Freon, you
run the risk of leaks inside your home. Replace them with high-efficiency
models and schedule an appointment with the New York City Department of
Sanitation to remove your old model in an environmentally safe way.
• Abatement and removal of asbestos: Asbestos remediation should be a top
priority for maintaining a healthy indoor environment. The Department of
Buildings can provide guidance on how to safely remove asbestos insulation,
but to minimize your risk of harmful exposure to asbestos and to ensure
proper handling, contact a licensed professional. Asbestos abatement and
removal projects are regulated by the New York State Department of Labor.
For more information see their web site (www.labor.ny.gov/workerprotection/
safetyhealth/DOSH_ASBESTOS.shtm).
• Remediation of lead paint and pipes: If your walls or ceilings were painted
before 1970, they were most likely painted with lead-based paint. If paint
cannot be safely removed, isolate with several layers of lead-free paint or
wallpaper. For removal, contact your local health department to find a licensed
professional who can undertake your lead paint remediation project. Pregnant
women and children should absolutely not be involved in the removal of lead
paint. Lead piping and soldering should be properly removed.
Select materials with a low environmental footprint

• Rapidly renewable materials: Materials like bamboo or cork, produced from
rapidly-growing plants, help preserve native forests and natural resources.
• Repurposed or salvaged materials: Wood products, including doors, floor
planks, and furniture can be reused in renovations. This not only keeps them
out of landfills and limits resource consumption, but can reintroduce or
maintain the historic character of your building.
• High recycled content materials: Wall insulation, countertops, flooring,
carpeting, and even interior paint products are available with degrees of
recycled content.
Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) Regulations
In general, the material in this section is limited to the interior of the building and
does not require LPC review. If the work you are proposing requires a DOB permit,

The DOB regulates the use of materials in buildings in order to protect the health
of building occupants, such as banning lead and asbestos and requiring ventilation
and air filtration. See the New York City Building Code for more information.
RESOURCES
BuildingGreen, for articles, case studies and news
BuildingGreen Green Spec guide to products for your building
www.greenspec.buildinggreen.com


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Appendix
Carpet and Rug Institute for tips on installation, cleaning, and maintenance of
A carpets and rugs

www.carpet-rug.org
Clean: The Humble Art of Zen Cleansing, by Michael De Jong (2007) for natural
and alternative cleaning methods
Environmental Working Group compiles information about potentially hazardous
substances
www.ewg.org
US Environmental Protection Agency for lightbulb recycling procedures
www.epa.gov/bulbrecycling
US Environmental Protection Agency for information on radon awareness
www.epa.gov/radon
Green Seal Environmental Standard certifies environmentally sensitive cleaning
products, paints and packaging
www.greenseal.org
National Trust for Historic Preservation, for tips on “Lead Safe Practices for
Older and Historic Buildings”
www.preservationnation.org/resources/homeowners
NY City Department of Sanitation, for information about proper waste disposal
www.nyc.gov/nycwasteless
NY State Department of Health, for information on removing lead-based paint
www.health.ny.gov/publications/2502
NY State Department of Labor, for information about asbestos abatement and
removal
www.labor.state.ny.us/workerprotection/safetyhealth/DOSH_ASBESTOS.shtm
Perkins & Will Transparency, a list of common chemicals to avoid in building
products
www.transparency.perkinswill.com
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Sustainable landscapes & Outdoor amenities

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SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPES & OUTDOOR
AMENITIES
A sustainable site is designed and managed to maintain or supplement the natural 75% of New York City’s
environment with minimal impact from the urban environment. New York City’s
land area is covered by
urban infrastructure deters water infiltration and absorbs and retains heat,
creating a phenomenon known as the “urban heat island effect,” which causes impervious surfaces.
temperatures in the city to be several degrees warmer than the surrounding
New York City Sustainable
suburbs. Managing your property in a sustainable manner can help decrease
Stormwater Management Plan
the heat island effect as well as reduce energy waste, minimize soil and water
pollution, and maintain a more desirable living space.
Key issues for urban landscapes

• Conventional landscaping and infrastructure practices, from the selection
of materials, products, and systems, does not always adhere to the historic
character of a landmarked building or community.
• Many building and landscaping materials, products, and site maintenance
activities release toxins into the ground water and storm water drainage systems.
• Introducing exotic and invasive species can make landscapes unwieldy or high
maintenance. It is best to select native plants, which are better suited to the
local climate and will require less maintenance.
• Highly impervious and dark-colored hardscapes contribute to the heat
island effect and increase the volume of rainwater runoff, erosion, and
contamination. They also minimize an area’s capacity for supporting
biodiverse habitats.
Use cleaning products and tools that minimize waste
Use cleaning tools, such as conventional mops and brooms, and reusable hand
cloths as much as possible to minimize waste. Regular use of paper towels and
disposable floor sweeping tools are convenient, but contribute considerably to
household waste.
Use biodegradable trash bags

Use biodegradable trash bags for kitchen and landscape waste collection and fill
bags completely before disposal to minimize landfill waste.
Improve the sustainability of your landscaping practices

• Minimize landscape maintenance costs and water usage by xeriscaping.
Xeriscaping (from the Greek xeros, or dry) is a systematic method of
promoting water conservation in landscaped areas. Select appropriate native
and adapted species and plant them in a manner that will require little
irrigation. Use low-maintenance turfgrass, suited for northern climates.
Avoid bluegrass turf, which requires a lot of watering. If necessary, talk to a Urban Rooftops. The offices at 641 Avenue of the
landscape architect to help you identify the native species that will work best Americas benefit from easily-maintained succulents
to meet the demands of your property and to understand the water and energy that naturally cool the roof and provide a biophilic view.
requirements of the plants you select.
Photo credit: Ryan Browne, for Cook+Fox
• Compost landscaping and food waste. Use composted food scraps and Architects
landscape waste to enrich the soil of your garden or potted plants and reduce
the need for store-bought chemical fertilizers.


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• Encourage biodiversity. Provide a native habitat, either as a yard or rooftop
A that attracts insects, butterflies and birds. This approach will also contribute
to pest management.
• Maintain healthy soil and water. Maintaining healthy soil absorbs more
water and encourages deeper roots. Use topsoil and plant material that
requires little fertilizer and rainwater. Using mulch keeps plant roots cool,
minimizes evaporation, prevents soil from crusting, and reduces weed
growth. Designate portions of your yard or rooftop garden that do not
require regular mowing, cutting, cultivation, fertilization, or watering. If
pest control is necessary, use biological and natural controls, including use
of fungal pathogens and plant extracts as bio-pesticides.
Maintain compost
Compost organic food and landscape waste to enrich landscape soils. Rotate
compost routinely to encourage decomposition and prevent pests. To find a local
composting organization, visit www.nyc.gov/wasteless/compost.
Clean gutters and rain barrels

Clean gutters, drains, and rain barrels regularly to minimize buildup of organic
matter. Poorly maintained gutters can lead to clogs, which support mosquitoes and
algae growth, and can lead to water damage to your building.
Practice routine maintenance of large trees

Regular maintenance of trees on or near your property will help avoid potential
accidents or property damage. Early detection of an overburdened limb or a
disease may help prevent the tree from being removed. Large trees are hard to
replace in the city. The loss of a full grown tree also means lost amenities, such as
shading, rainfall management, privacy, and natural habitat.
Minimize water contamination from exterior cleaning and maintenance

• Practice water efficient and non-polluting car washing. Use captured
rainwater and water-soluble, biobased, and biodegradable soaps and cleaning
products to wash your car. Do not leave a hose running when not in use.
• Sweep sidewalks, walkways, patios and stoop. The use of soaps, bleach and
power-washing for cleaning or clearing outdoor surfaces is an inefficient use
Biophilic design of water, can contaminate water and soil, and damage building components
and other materials.
Many studies show that humans have
an innate attraction to other living • Anti-icing with sand. Using salt on sidewalks, stoops and pathways corrodes,
beings. Introducing nature into the built cracks and degrades these surfaces, as well as your car, your shoes, and your
environment has been shown to relieve carpet as you track it indoors. Salt also pollutes ice melt and snowmelt as it
stress, improve concentration and runs to the storm sewer. The most environmentally responsive way to prevent
productivity, and improve occupant’s snow and ice buildup is to shovel and remove it right away. When this is not
health. When designing your interiors, possible, use sand. While sand is not a deicer itself, it can provide traction for
maximize views to the outside from people and cars. An alternative approach is to anti-ice with sand soaked in a
all spaces, introduce potted plants, chemical de-icing liquid.
provide superior ventilation, and
• De-icing with chemicals. Liquid products serve as preventative de-icers,
use non-toxic finishes with natural
whereas crystallized de-icers are applied after snow or ice has accumulated.
materials like wood or stone. The
Though less corrosive than salt, some chemical de-icers are known to pollute
economic benefits of biophilic design
are compiled in Terrapin Bright Green’s
water. Check labels and avoid urea sodium chloride and magnesium chloride
The Economics of Biophilia: Why products, which are sometimes marketed as environmentally friendly.
Designing with Nature in Mind Makes Acetate-based products, though more expensive, pollute less. Calcium
Financial Sense (2012). For more ideas magnesium acetate (CMA) is a natural acid alternative that is soluble in water
on design, see Kellert, Heerwagen and and shares chemical properties with vinegar.
Mador’s Biophilic Design, published by
Wiley & Sons (2008).
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Utilize integrated pest management to reduce toxins around the home
Urban Heat Island Effect A

Implement a comprehensive Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program to The heat island effect describes built-up
prevent pest issues in and around your home. An effective IPM program will areas that reach higher temperatures
include the following actions: than unbuilt areas due to the change in
• Manage landscape to render it less suitable for pests and pest carriers. the terrain and surface materials. As
vegetation and permeable open land
• Exclude pest carriers with fencing or direct reduction. is replaced with streets, parking lots,
• Control small pests by providing habitat for birds to feed and nest. buildings, and other infrastructure, the
surface and ambient temperatures rise.
• Use host-targeted pesticide application through passive topical
application devices. As urban dwellers, we are surrounded by
• Consider biological and natural controls, including use of fungal pathogens heat islands, which can affect our homes
and plant extracts. by increasing summertime peak energy
demand and air-conditioning costs, as
• Minimize the application of chemical insecticides to select areas.
well as air pollution and greenhouse
gas emissions, heat-related illness and
OPPORTUNITIES—MODERATE/HIGHER COST mortality, and water quality.
Reduce heat island effect of your roof As a building owner, you can reduce
your contribution to the urban heat
See section on Walls & Roofs for more information on roof treatments and island by increasing tree and vegetative
materials or vegetated roof opportunities. cover, at the ground and roof levels;
installing light-colored or reflective
Improve rainwater management on your property roofing materials; and using light colored
pavements. Even inexpensive white
• Use rain barrels and cisterns. With an average of four inches of rainfall per roof coatings can reduce your rooftop
month, nonpotable water is abundant and fairly consistent in New York City. temperature in summer by 40°F or more!
Capture and store rainwater in cisterns for graywater use such as landscape
irrigation.
• Install permeable paving. For outdoor parking, patios, and walkways, install
permeable systems wherever possible, to allow rainwater to infiltrate the soil
instead of running off into the storm sewer or your basement. Select open
grid pavement systems that are at least 50% pervious and accommodate
vegetation within open cells. Open grid pavement systems are common
and come in a variety of materials (brick, stone, concrete, tile, and plastics),
decorative styles and levels of durability (load tolerance from usage types,
e.g., cars versus trucks).
• Install a vegetated roof. Vegetated rooftops can function on more than one
level. In addition to being a great way to reclaim underutilized urban spaces,
support biodiversity and reduce the heat island effect, they also help minimize
the amount of rainwater runoff in our city’s combined sewer system. Before
installing a vegetated roof system, consult a structural engineer to ensure your
building can support the additional load.
Install durable gutters and downspouts

Effective gutters must be durable and watertight, and maintain good water quality.
Gutters should be installed at a slight slope toward downspouts to allow them to
completely drain. Standing water can shorten the life of your gutter system and
attract mosquitoes.
• Maximize durability and minimize waste. Select seamless aluminum
products from services that fabricate gutters on-site to the dimensions of your
building; this will reduce the likelihood of leaks and eliminate product waste.
Aluminum products will also last longer than galvanized products. Permeable parking lots. Shade trees minimize the urban
heat island effect, while permeable pavers allow on-site
• Select nonpolluting materials and finishes. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) gutters infiltration of water in parking areas, walkways, and
contain additives that increase flexibility but also leach into rainwater and hardscaped yards, which reduces the burden on our
harm aquatic life downstream. Unpainted galvanized gutters leach zinc into city’s storm sewers.
rainwater and rust over time. Factory-applied, baked-on (often called powder-
Photo credit: Bill Browning


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coated) finishes are more durable than sprayed finishes and create less
A pollution during manufacturing.

• Design for first flush. Guttered roofs make rainwater easy to direct, but be
sure to design the capture system to discharge the first flush of water during a
storm, which will reduce the amount of dirt and organic matter entering your
rain barrels or cisterns. Also consider installing leafguard systems in existing
gutters. Check and clean your gutters regularly to avoid build up and clogging.
Install water efficient irrigation systems and controls

• Drip Irrigation: A drip irrigation system is the most efficient choice to irrigate
landscaping during the height of the summer. Because drip irrigation systems
are designed to deliver water directly to the base of the plant through a
network of valves, pipes, tubing, and emitters, they use water and fertilizer
more efficiently than spray irrigation. Ideally, this system will utilize stored
rainwater for all irrigation requirements. For best results, only operate system
during dry periods.
• Soaker hoses: Place soaker hoses directly on top of the soil and flatten as
possible to ensure an even distribution of water across the area to be irrigated,
then cover them with mulch. The mulch does triple duty by disguising the
hoses, preventing weeds, and helping the soil retain moisture longer.
• Moisture sensors and timers: Install a device that monitors soil moisture
levels and suspends watering when levels are sufficient for plant health or if
Gutters and downspouts. The placement of your freezing temperatures occur. Handheld devices can also be used to monitor
downspout to openings in your building is key to the moisture levels of your indoor and outdoor potted plants.
minimizing moisture intake. The close proximity of the
downspout discharge shown (above) to the window Plant deciduous trees to provide summer shading
puts the basement at higher risk of flooding during
heavy rainfalls. Redirect or extend your downspout Planting native or adapted deciduous trees adjacent to your home, especially
to discharge away from your home, or collect the on south facades, filters daylight, managing solar heat gain by minimizing
rainwater in a barrel to reuse for landscaping irrigation it in the summer and maximizing it in the winter. Trees also provide shade
or for washing your car, patio, or walkway. for outdoor activities and reduce the volume of rainwater that falls on your
property during a storm, lessening the impact on the storm sewer system.
Photo © Terrapin Bright Green
Improve exterior lighting design

Exterior lighting should help you safely and comfortably locate your doorway,
outdoor space, or vehicle, while minimizing energy usage, respecting the historic
character of the home, reducing light pollution and improving the view of the
night sky.
• Increase energy efficiency exterior lighting. Design and enhance exterior
Wasted Light lighting with low-voltage LED (light emitting diode) fixtures. LED technology
50% is suitable for a variety of outdoor applications, including accent lighting,
signage and spot lights. Where LEDs are not adequate, use metal halide high-
intensity discharge (HID) lamps. Install timers and motion sensors to further
improve efficiency.
Glare • Install down-lighting. Design downward facing lighting to light pathways
10% and other surfaces, rather than directing light toward the night sky and
wasting energy. Lighting should only illuminate the intended areas. Refer to
Productive Light the IESNA lighting handbook for further guidance on appropriate levels of
40% illumination (see web site in Resources on page 62).
See section on Lighting & Electrical for more information on lighting strategies.
Down-lighting. In addition to clouding the stars at night,
light pollution can disrupt bird migrations. Outdoor light
fixtures that direct light downward use energy more
efficiently and help reduce light pollution and glare.
Graphic © Terrapin Bright Green
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Minimize the environmental footprint of your structures
A
• Use recycled content in new concrete structures. To reduce the
environmental footprint of new floor slabs or foundation walls, Portland
cement used in concrete should be substituted with more environmentally
responsible options. Using 20% replacement material is common in New
York, but higher percentages are possible and should be discussed with your
engineer and contractor. Take note that the percentage of substitute material,
as well as the type of material used (e.g., fly ash or blast furnace slag), may
impact the curing time for the concrete.
• Use recycled content in concrete amenities. Outdoor tables, retaining
walls, and pathways made of concrete should include recycled content such
as aggregates, shells, glass gravel, and sand to reduce the environmental
footprint. These materials can also add a decorative element with natural
textures and colors.
• Use nontoxic and biodegradable concrete release agents. Select
petroleum-free, sulfur-free products that meet OSHA and EPA standards
and contain the lowest VOC values. For oil-based release agents, select a
vegetable or mineral oil-based product.
• Use sustainable wood products. For fencing, decks, tables, and trellis
structures, use salvaged wood or products certified by the Forest Stewardship
Council (FSC). See section on Rating Systems for more information on
sustainable product labels.
Construct a honeybee apiary for your roof or yard

Provide a home for honeybees to pollinate plants and contribute to the biodiversity
and prosperity of your plants or garden. Well-maintained beehives can serve as an
educational tool for building occupants and the community, while also providing
honey that you can harvest.
Before installing a hive on your property, have a solid understanding of honeybee
biology and basic beekeeping methods. Correct placement of your hive is a very
important consideration, as proximity to sunlight and heat, access to water, and
proper ventilation are all vital to maintaining a healthy hive.
For more information, educational opportunities, best practices, New York City
Health Code requirements, and other resources for beekeeping, refer to the New
York City Beekeepers Association (NYCBA).
Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) Regulations
Alterations to yards and areaways may affect the character or physical integrity Rooftop Apiary. The presence of nonaggressive
of your building and its site, and typically requires LPC review. For example, honeybees (Apis mellifera) is an indicator of ecological
altering or replacing “hardscape” features, such as sidewalks, paths, and areaways, health. They pollinate plants and contribute to plant
or installing tree pits or permanent planters will require an LPC permit; planting and animal biodiversity. This worldwide movement
new lawns or shrubs in existing unpaved areas and maintaining existing lawns and continues to rise in support of urban beekeeping.
shrubs will not require an LPC permit. Among the most notable in the United States are the
apiaries at the White House and Chicago City Hall;
atop Manhattan’s Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, the Natural
Department of Buildings (DOB) Regulations Resources Defense Council headquarters at West
Generally, larger-scale work requires a building permit from the DOB. The DOB 20th Street, the offices of Terrapin Bright Green and
requires permits for sidewalk alteration, large reroofing projects, and installation Cook+Fox Architects on 6th Avenue (above); and
of green roofs. Roof drainage is regulated by the New York City Plumbing Code, Brooklyn Grange farm in Long Island City, Queens.
and the Building Code has requirements for roof reflectance, as well as for the Photo © Terrapin Bright Green
materials used for roof systems. If the work you are proposing requires a DOB
permit and your property is a City landmark or a building in a City historic district,


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LPC Permit Examples: yards/areaways an LPC permit will also be required. If you are not sure if the work you intend
A to do requires a permit, consult the DOB web site or call the DOB office in the
No Permit Required borough where the property is located. DOB Rule 101-14 establishes categories of
• Maintaining lawns or shrubs work that may be classified as a minor alteration or ordinary repair and therefore
• Planting new lawns or shrubs in may be exempt from the permit requirements of the New York City construction
existing unpaved areas codes. Rule 101-14 can be found on the City’s web site (www.nyc.gov/html/dob/
downloads/rules/1_RCNY_101-14.pdf ).
• Placing nonpermanent planting pots,
planter boxes, or window boxes
RESOURCES
Permit Required* Beekeeping
• Installing pavement in yard areas
previously unpaved
NYC Public Health Entomology Unit, for information about regulations and best
practices in New York City
• Removing or replacing paving
materials in yards, areaways, or beekeeping@health.nyc.gov
sidewalks New York City Beekeepers Association (NYCBA) can provide resources from local
• Installing or removing permanently beekeeping enthusiasts
installed planters
www.nyc-bees.org
• Installing or enlarging tree pits
Cornell University Master Beekeeper Program teaches and certifies those who
wish to become master beekeepers
* LPC Tech Sheet, Chapter 6: Site Work
www.masterbeekeeper.org
Integrated Pest Management

City Farmer, a web site with articles and tips about urban farming
www.cityfarmer.info
Association of Natural Biocontrol Producers (ANBP) is an industry group
dedicated to natural, nontoxic pest control technologies
www.anbp.org
New York State Integrated Pest Management Program, run by Cornell University,
provides IPM elements for a variety of crops
www.nysipm.cornell.edu
Landscaping
LPC Tech Sheet, Chapter 6: Site Work
The LCP Tech Sheet explains requirements for sidewalks, sidewalk cafes, yards,
areaways, landscaping, fences, driveways, and swimming pools, as well as work
affecting mature trees in the Douglaston, Riverdale, and Sunnyside Gardens
historic districts.
BuildingGreen, Green Products: Sitework & Landscaping
A hub for articles, products, and case studies pertaining to site work and
landscaping, including but not limited to stormwater, green walls, turf, paving,
erosion protection, pest management, plantings and fencing
www.buildinggreen.com/menus
Green Roofs for Healthy Cities is a nonprofit organization focused on increasing
the awareness of the economic, social, and environmental benefits of green roofs
and green walls, and other forms of living architecture
www.greenroofs.org
MillionTrees NYC is part of the PlaNYC’s goal of planting one million trees in
New York City over a decade. This organization can help coordinate tree plantings,
recommend species, and assist with tree maintenance.
www.milliontreesnyc.org
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Fuel Efficiency & Renewable Energy
FUEL EFFICIENCY & RENEWABLE ENERGY

New York’s buildings consume more heating oil annually than any other U.S. city. New Yorkers pay among
These building fuels create more pollution in the city than vehicles or power plants the highest retail
(PlaNYC, 2011). It is important to reduce building fuel use in order to decrease
harmful air pollution. Integrated building systems that include some passive energy prices in the
design (e.g., natural ventilation, daylighting), and conservation strategies tend to nation, collectively
provide the best and lowest cost opportunities for minimizing fuel consumption. spending more than
Renewable energy technology can improve efficiencies, especially those associated $15 billion each year.
with transmission losses (energy lost as it travels from the source to the grid to
your home). However, implementing less expensive energy- and water-saving PlaNYC 2030, April 2011
measures, as well as conservation strategies, remain the most cost-effective and
practical first steps.
Types of fuels and renewable energy available to small historic buildings in New York City
Petroleum-based fuels and natural gas are the most common energy sources for
heating. In New York City, our electricity is generated from low-carbon nuclear,
hydroelectric, and natural gas. Renewable energy technologies are increasing
in prevalence, the most common of which include biodiesel blends, solar
photovoltaic and solar thermal systems, geothermal systems, wind turbines, and
residential-scale fuel cells.
• Heating oil: Fossil fuels used in boilers and furnaces in New York City include
No. 6, No. 4, and No. 2 heating oils. No. 6 heating oil is the most common
high-pollutant heating fuel in the city today, but is being phased out by new
City regulations. No. 4 is less efficient than No. 2 oil because it is mixed
with unprocessed No. 6 oil. No. 2 is the cleanest type of petroleum-based oil
available.
• Biodiesel: Biodiesel is a nonpetroleum, based fuel that contains no sulfur or
heavy metals. Heating oil sold within New York City must contain at least 2%
biodiesel. The low-sulfur blend, known as Bioheat or No. 194-A oil, caps the
allowable sulfur content in fuel oil, reducing sulfur dioxide, particulate matter,
and nitrogen oxide pollution and benefiting the city’s air quality, water quality,
and sewer infrastructure.
• Natural gas: Although increasing use of natural gas is raising concerns
about the environmental implications of harvesting practices, natural gas is
a commonly available and a much cleaner fuel to power boilers and furnaces.
The City encourages a switch to boilers and furnaces fueled by natural
gas. This information can be found in the New York City Department of
Environmental Protection Rules’ Chapter 15, Amendment 2.
• Geothermal: Geothermal technology involves drilling deeps wells, sometimes
more than 1,000 feet below a building, to transfer heat to and from the earth.
It is being used increasingly in historic buildings in New York City because it
eliminates the need for unsightly cooling towers on rooftops. Prime examples
of historic buildings using geothermal are the Chelsea Seminary, the South
Street Seaport, and the AIA Center for Architecture. Geothermal has a low
operating cost, and can provide both heating and cooling capacity, a long life-
expectancy, and minimal maintenance.
• Solar electricity: Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems convert sunlight into
electricity, reducing a building’s reliance on the electric grid. A solar PV
array will have the highest efficiency when oriented south-facing with no
shadowing obstructions, which is sometimes difficult to achieve on low-rise
urban buildings. Current PV technology ranges between 20–30% efficient;
nevertheless, they convert solar energy into electricity without emitting
harmful greenhouse gases. In June 2007 New York City was designated a

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A
Solar America City under the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar America City
Initiative. The NYC Solar America City Partnership, led by Sustainable CUNY
(the City University of New York), has created an online map locating existing
solar PV and solar thermal installations and gives an estimate of solar PV
potential for every rooftop in the city (http://nycsolarmap.com/).
• Solar thermal: Solar thermal systems use solar collectors to harvest sunlight
for space conditioning and domestic water heating, including jacuzzis and
pools. Solar thermal systems, for which there are several variations, provide
three times the energy per square foot as PV and can provide 50–80% of a
building’s hot water needs. In New York City’s climate, indirect active systems
are the most common for heating domestic hot water.
• Wind: Wind technology uses turbines to capture kinetic energy in the wind
and channel it to electricity production. Wind power makes sense on buildings
that have a constant supply of wind, usually buildings located in less dense
areas or on the waterfront. In order to preserve the character of historic
buildings, turbines should be considered for backyard rather than rooftop
installation.
• Fuel cells: Fuel cell systems utilize natural gas to power and heat your home.
The natural gas is processed and converted to energy—through a chemical
Photovoltaic (solar electrical) energy. Photovoltaic reaction that happens when the hydrogen is oxidized—providing on demand
panels are most effective when installed facing south, electric power and hot water. Fuel cells are expensive and require a constant
on the rooftop or a south-facing wall, without power demand but are reliable outdoor systems that require no major
surrounding shading objects. Check with a professional renovation.
installer to identify the most suitable installment size
and orientation for your rowhouse.
Key issues with petroleum-based fuels
Photo credit: Creative Commons, some rights
reserved by Demeester Approximately 14% of local emissions of particulate matter results from the
combustion of fuel used for heat and hot water (New York City Department
of Environmental Protection). Today, heating systems in historic buildings are
capable of running on cleaner and safer fuel alternatives than when they were
initially built with; however, keeping fuel systems up to date and compliant with
New York City Building Codes is an ongoing effort for building owners.
• Energy efficiency issues: Most historic buildings have infrastructure that does
not meet today’s efficiency criteria. Outdated boilers and hot air furnaces tend
to use more fuel to generate the same amount of heat as do current Energy
Star models.
• Heating oil issues: According the New York City Department of
Environmental Protection, the city is one of the few places in the United
States where No. 6 and No. 4 oil are still used as a heating fuel. These
outdated heating fuels are dangerous to building occupant health as well as
the health of the larger community. Smog created by burning petroleum-
based fuels has been linked to respiratory illnesses, heart disease, and
premature heart attacks. Boilers using these heavier grades of oil (No. 6 and
No. 4) tend to be more difficult to operate and properly maintain, which
often leads to smoke complaints and building violations.
Key issues with our energy grid

The electricity grid, built in the middle of the twentieth century, is showing its age.
Anyone who remembers the New York City blackout of 2003 knows the reality of
the grid’s brittleness and its limits. The blackout was caused by extreme demand
during a heat wave in the region, which surpassed the grid’s capacity to generate
power. It is critical that communities learn to manage their peak power demand to
avoid brownouts and blackouts. Another issue with the grid is that it suffers from
inherent inefficiencies. New York’s power plants are less than 50% fuel efficient
because of the inability to utilize the waste heat generated at the plants. There are
additional efficiency losses in energy transmission; therefore, less than one-third of
the fuel burned at a power plant ends up in our electrical outlets.
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Key issues with renewable energy technologies

Renewable energy provides pollution-free energy for electricity or hot water,
reducing utility bills, carbon emissions, and our dependence on fossil fuels.
Some technologies are more appropriate than others for historic buildings.
The adoption of renewable energy technologies in New York City is expanding
rapidly, but knowing the unique characteristics and demands of one’s building,
as well as the renewable energy opportunities, is often a hurdle to implementing
the most appropriate technologies. From a historic preservation perspective,
owners should consider the aesthetic impacts of visible systems like photovoltaic
panels, attachment of systems to historic structures, and structural capacity of the
structure. In addition, a series of technical factors must be considered, including
the type of mechanical system(s) utilized, accessibility to select utilities (e.g.,
not all buildings in New York City have direct access to natural gas), building
orientation and location (south-facing is best for solar panels), intended end
use, energy demand, and peak loads, as well as system implementation and
maintenance costs.
The New York City Department of City Planning has recently revised zoning in
the city to improve the ability to install renewable energy systems on buildings.
Solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable energy systems have been given
specific allowances in the codes. More information can be found on the web site of
the New York City Department of City Planning (www.nyc.gov/dcp).
Before switching to an alternative fuel, identify the simple modifications that
can be made to improve efficiency. See section on Heating & Cooling for more
information on equipment sizing.
• Avoid peak time usage. Conducting certain domestic activities such as
running the dishwasher or taking a hot shower after 9pm will help keep your
utility bills low.
• Maintain your mechanical system. Overuse of your mechanical system can
cause unnecessary wear and reduced efficiency as the system requires more
fuel to achieve the same energy output. Well-maintained systems will be more
efficient over their lifetime.
• Maintain renewable energy systems regularly. Routinely clean debris (soot,
pollen, leaves) and snow from solar collectors to maintain efficiency and
maximize longevity.
Adjust your thermostat to a reasonable temperature

Avoid wasting fuel (and money) by setting the thermostat at temperatures beyond
what is necessary, particularly when a space is unoccupied. Rather than air-
conditioning your home when you are away, set controls to turn on 30 minutes
before you anticipate returning home. This can be done remotely using a smart
phone or other mobile devices. See section on Heating & Cooling for more
guidance.
Use utility provider voluntary green power programs

Utility companies provide voluntary programs and other options for those who
want to utilize renewable sources. If you decide not to install renewable energy
sources in your building, you can still purchase renewable energy credits from
utility provider voluntary programs. To determine your options, check with
NYSERDA (nyserda.org) and your utility provider.

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Switch to a cleaner burning fuel
Historic buildings will most likely have boilers built to burn No. 6 oil, which is
a sludgy substance that releases a large amount of soot when burnt. The DEP is
gradually phasing out the use of No. 6 oil and encouraging New York City buildings
to switch to much cleaner No. 2 oil instead. No. 4 oil is also available as an
alternative, but it is inefficient to make, since it is a mix of energy-intensive No. 2
oil and polluting No. 6 oil. Permits for No. 6 will be eliminated by July 2015. Newly
installed boilers and burners must use No. 2 or No. 4 oil, natural gas or another
low-emission fuel, such as biofuel. Biofuel is a clean-burning fuel that is produced
using renewable sources like soybeans or used cooking oil. It burns cleaner, is
biodegradable, and is almost sulfur-free. When switching to a boiler that uses fuel
more efficiently as well as cleaner fuel, look at Energy Star–certified models.
Use an energy management tool to monitor fuel consumption

Wireless measuring devices can track indoor/outdoor temperature and the
consumption of fuel to improve the energy efficiency of your building. Also make
sure to have your meter read regularly to ensure that you are using fuel efficiently.
Install solar thermal systems for water heating
If you are considering installing a solar thermal (hydronic) system in your building,
have a licensed contractor handle the installation. It is important to site the solar
thermal system so that it both receives enough direct sunlight to make it cost-
effective and maintains the historic character of your building. You should consult
a structural engineer to ensure that your building can support the additional load
of the system. Also consider these tips:
• Provide space in a utility room or closet for an additional hot water storage
tank. Using solar thermal in combination with a traditional hot water heater
can cut water heating costs by as much as 80%.
• If your building is located in one of New York City’s Solar Empowerment
Zones, designated areas of the city where solar energy use is most feasible
from a technical standpoint, you may qualify for a range of implementation
benefits from the city government. See www.nyc.gov for more information
Solar options. Often more cost- and energy-efficient about Solar Empowerment Zones.
than photovoltaic panels, solar thermal can be installed
• Careful calculation of building loads will help ensure your solar thermal
on most buildings for domestic water heating. The solar
system provides low-cost, energy-efficient hot water.
thermal vacuum tubes in this photo were installed on
a historic building in Brooklyn Heights. See the Sidney • Use the internal rate of return (IRR), or break-even time, which is the amount
Place Passive House case study for more detail. of time the system takes to pay for itself, to determine whether a solar system
Photo © 475 High Performance Building Supply is a viable opportunity for you (www.solar-estimate.org).
• Visit the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (www.solar-rating.org)
for informative “solar facts” on types of solar collectors, performance data,
ratings, durability and other issues.
Install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to produce electricity

It is important to site the solar photovoltaic system on roofs that provide a
constant stream of sunlight while being sure installation will not impact the
historic character of your building. Installing on south-facing surfaces, unshaded
by trees or neighboring buildings, is best.
• Use a licensed installer that will know how best to angle the panels to
optimize efficiency. Choose a professional certified by the North American
Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, and who is on NYSERDA’s list of
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approved installers. A licensed professional will take into consideration your

building’s energy use, as well as the roof’s ability to support the system, and
will also help you decide which type of solar PV system is most appropriate
for your home.
• The system will need to be installed with equipment to monitor the energy
produced, as well as a DC/AC power inverter to convert the collected energy
to energy that can be used by the electric systems and devises in your home.
Due to the toxicity of batteries, avoid installing a backup, as they are typically
unnecessary when your home remains connected to the utility grid.
Install a geothermal system

Installing a geothermal system is a major undertaking, so it is important to find a
reputable contractor who will be able to guide you through the process. See the
New York State Energy Research and Development (NYSERDA) web site for a list
of approved contractors with experience installing geothermal systems. NYSERDA
and the federal government provide financial incentives for geothermal projects.
See the Incentives section for more information.
Install a wind turbine

Wind energy should be installed on roofs of buildings that have access to a Wind energy. If carbon reduction is an important part of
constant supply of wind. However, in order to preserve the character of historic your building retrofit, buying certified wind power is a
buildings, turbines should be considered for backyard rather than rooftop way to reduce carbon beyond what can be done onsite.
installation. Certain areas of Queens or the Bronx, where buildings are most likely
to be a couple of stories tall and have a wind flow unencumbered by surrounding
buildings, may be good candidates for a turbine.
An anemometer, a common weather station instrument, should be installed on
the prospective site to measure the force and direction of the wind and to validate
the cost-effectiveness of installing a wind turbine. Consistency of wind can be
as important as abundance. The site must be evaluated to ensure that it has an
adequate wind supply, and to make sure that wind turbines will not disturb
wildlife in the area. An approved wind system installer will be able to evaluate
your site for you.
Visit the DOE Wind Program (eere.energy.gov/wind) for information on wind
technology, the Small Wind Certification Council (smallwindcertification.org) for
certified small wind turbines, or NYSERDA (nyserda.org) to get in touch with an
approved wind system installer. NYSERDA, ConEdison and other utilities offer
incentives and payment programs that can make this more financially viable. See
the section on Incentives and Programs for more information.
Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) Regulations LPC MYTH BUSTER

If your property is a City landmark or a building in a City historic district The LPC reviews proposals for solar
Installation of renewable energy equipment may affect the character or physical panel installations on flat or low-slope
integrity of your building and its site, and typically requires LPC review. For roofs on a regular basis, most of which
example, installing solar thermal, photovoltaic panels, or wind turbines will are approved at staff level. In some cases,
require an LPC permit; maintaining existing renewable energy systems will not the layout or configuration of solar panel
require an LPC permit. installations may need to be adjusted in
order to comply with LPC regulations.
Most mechanical and electrical work related to fuel use, and conversion to
renewable systems, require a permit from the DOB. DOB regulates the heating
units in all buildings by issuing permits for new units and re-issuing those permits
every three years. If the work you are proposing requires a DOB permit, and your
property is a City landmark or a building in a City historic district, an LPC permit

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will also be required. If you are not sure if the work you intend to do requires a
permit, consult the DOB web site or call the DOB office in the borough where the
property is located.
RESOURCES
Environmental Defense Fund, for information on clean heating fuels, and to find
out what kind of fuel buildings in your neighborhood use
www.edf.org/cleanheat
www.edf.org/edf-map-dirty-heating-oil-new-york-city
National Biodiesel Board, for information about biodiesel as a heating fuel
www.nbb.org
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA),
Offers a variety of incentives for upgrading systems
www.nyserda.ny.gov
GreenTechMedia, for articles and developing technologies
www.greentechmedia.com
Solar Estimator
Determine your rate of return (break-even) for solar and wind technologies
www.solar-estimate.org
NYC Solar America City, a CUNY program providing a NYC Solar Map,
information on Solar Empowerment Zones, and resources to navigate the solar
thermal and PV installation process.
www.cuny.edu/about/resources/sustainability/solar-america.html
Solar Thermal Consortium’s Roadmap for NYS shows solar thermal potential
across the state
www.solarthermalworld.org/node/1030
Solar Rating & Certification Corporation, for ratings, durability, and efficiency
information of different systems.
www.solar-rating.org
See the section on Incentives & Programs for state and federal government
incentives that help make project financing more accessible.
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Rating Systems & Performance Standards

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RATING SYSTEMS & PERFORMANCE
STANDARDS
In the 1990s, as the sustainability movement grew in the building industry, it
became clear that the industry needed standards to quantitatively measure green
building components. This led to a proliferation of standards for individual
products, such as carpets and woods, as well as more comprehensive building
and community scale certification programs. A primary objective of these rating
systems has been to support market transformation by identifying the important
issues in the industry and the goals for improvement. Existing building reuse
has always been a valuable component of these rating systems, and as we learn
more about embodied energy, the recognition of the intrinsic value of historic
buildings increases.
Types of rating systems and standards

The two main categories for building rating systems and standards are building-
scale and product-scale. Under these two categories, there are different focal areas,
addressing issues such as energy or water (e.g., efficiency; performance; embodied
resources), occupant health and comfort (e.g., materials toxicity; access to nature;
user controllability of HVAC and lighting systems), and sustainable extraction of
natural resources (e.g., proximity of extraction or manufacturing to project; use of
renewable materials).
Key issues with rating systems and standards

The many different rating systems—some competing against each other,
others complementing each other—can be overwhelming. Often the biggest
challenge is knowing which rating system or performance standard to focus
on. Find the best approach for your project by first identifying which issues
are most important to you (e.g., health, environment, preservation, cost), and
then determining which aspects of your project are impacted (e.g., scheduling,
procurement, operations, cost). Not all projects are easy to categorize, but
rating systems and performance standards can be a valuable guide for helping
you define your project goals.
BUILDING OPPORTUNITIES
Home Performance with Energy Star®
Most New Yorkers qualify for a free or reduced-cost comprehensive home energy
audit and low-cost financing through the US EPA’s Home Performance with
Energy Star. NYSERDA manages the program for the State of New York and uses
a network of independent home improvement contractors to identify energy
efficiency improvement opportunities and to test homes using a “whole-house”
approach. From the initial visit to your home, to installation of energy efficiency
work through to project completion, the program is designed to serve as a “one-
stop shop” process. Homeowners learn where their home is wasting energy
and know what to expect from their contractors and how to obtain additional
information about moving forward. Details on how to participate and find a
contractor near you can be accessed on the NYSERDA web site (www.nyserda.
ny.gov/residential).


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LEED®
A
LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a program of the
US Green Building Council (www.usgbc.org) that provides building owners and
operators with a framework for identifying and implementing practical and
measurable green building design, construction, operations and maintenance
solutions. The LEED program offers a series of certification paths; the
following are the most common among historic and other existing small
residential buildings.
LEED for New Construction & Major Renovations (LEED-NC)
LEED-NC certification relates to the environmental impact of design and
construction of a new building, but also the major renovation of an existing
building. LEED-NC focuses on energy performance, indoor environmental quality,
water efficiency, materials and resources, and waste management.
LEED projects are certified by the Green Building Certification Institute (www
.gbci.org). For more information on the type of projects eligible for LEED
certification or for LEED reference guides, visit the USGBC web site (www.usgbc
.org/LEED).
Passive House & EnerPHit

A Passive House is a very well insulated, virtually airtight building that is
primarily heated by passive solar gain and internal gains from people, electrical
equipment, and renewable energy sources. Avoiding heat gain through shading
and window orientation also helps to limit cooling loads. The result targets
exceptional savings in space conditioning costs and high indoor air quality.
While Passive House certification of historic buildings is best suited for whole-
building renovation projects, the concepts and measures, especially for windows
efficiency, air sealing, and wall insulation, are also applicable to buildings not
pursuing certification.
The use of Passive House components in refurbishments of existing buildings
leads to extensive improvements with reference to thermal comfort, economic
efficiency, absence of structural damage and climate protection. Achieving the
Passive House standard in refurbishments of existing buildings is not always
a realistic goal, one of the reasons being that basement walls remain as barely
avoidable thermal bridges even after refurbishment. For such buildings, the
Passive House Institute has developed the “EnerPHit—Quality-Approved Energy
Retrofit with Passive House Components” Certificate. This has maximum heating
demand requirements, or alternatively the consistent use of Passive House
components in accordance with the requirements for Passive House certification
of components.
See the section on Windows & Doors for details on Passive House windows.
Guidelines for Passive House can be found at the Passive House Institute US
(PHIUS) web site (www.passivehouse.us). The German Passive House Institute
(www.passiv.de) is also a good resource. For information on EnerPHit, visit
www.passiv.de/en/03_certification/02_certification_buildings/04_enerphit/04_
enerphit.htm
PRODUCT-SCALE OPPORTUNITIES
There are many product-scale systems that could inform your materials and
product selections. Some certified products may have a higher up-front cost
compared to a similar yet uncertified products; however, their high-efficiency or
positive health impact may amount to savings for you in the long-run. This short
list of product rating systems should help you get started.
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Rating Systems & Performance Standards

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Carpet and Rug Institute’s Green Label
The Green Label program promotes healthy indoor environmental quality by

identifying rugs and carpets that have very low levels of volatile organic compound
(VOC) emissions. They also provide a seal of approval for vacuum cleaners. See
the section on Indoor Health, Housekeeping & Materials for more information on
VOCs and other household toxicants. For information on CRI’s Green Label and
other approval systems, visit www.carpet-rug.org.
Cool Roof Rating Council

The Cool Roof Rating Council provides solar reflectivity index (SRI) information for
most common building products. When considering adding materials to the roof or
landscape of a building, SRI is an important consideration. Project sites with a high
SRI help minimize urban heat island, and cost less to cool in the summer. For more
information, visit the Rating Council’s web site (www.coolroofs.org).
Cradle to Cradle®
The Cradle to Cradle (C2C) Certified program is a third party, multi-attribute eco-
label administered by the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute (www
.c2ccertified.org) that assesses a product’s safety to humans and the environment
for future life cycles. The materials and manufacturing practices of each product
are assessed in five categories: material health, material reutilization, renewable
energy use, water stewardship, and social responsibility. C2C certified products
are designed to be easily reusable by humans or nature. An example would include
lock-in-place wood flooring that can be easily removed for reuse elsewhere. More
information is also available on the McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry
(MBDC) web site (www.mbdc.com).
Energy Star®
Energy Star is an US EPA supported program that certifies appliances and other
household devices for energy efficient performance. Certified products use
20–30% less energy on average than required by federal standards. Energy Star
certified products include refrigerators, dishwashers, heating and air conditioning
systems, televisions and other home electronics, battery chargers, lighting,
computers and servers. For more information, visit the Energy Star web site (www
.energystar.gov).
Environmental Product Declaration

Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are a standardized way of quantifying
the life-cycle assessment of a product. EPDs include information on the product’s
consumption of raw materials, energy use, and chemical content. For more
information, visit the EPD web site (www.environmentalproductdeclarations.com).
Forest Stewardship Council

Wood products certified by the nonprofit Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) are
responsibly harvested by minimizing logging impact, respecting treaties and
indigenous rights, maintaining critical habitats, and managing harvests to allow
replenishment. For more information, visit the FSC web site (www.fsc.org).
Health Product Declaration Forum

The Health Product Declaration (HPD) Open Standard is an emerging standard
for healthy building materials. The HPD Open Standard collects information
on building materials, similar to the EPD (see above), and compiles it in simple,
easily referenced reports. The focus of these reports is to identify hazardous or
potentially hazardous chemicals in materials so that owners may make informed
decisions about the chemicals to which they are exposed. This database is aimed


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at reducing the research required to identify risk in using building products. For
A more information, visit the HPD web site (www.hpdworkinggroup.org).
National Fenestration Rating Council

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) is a nonprofit, public/private
organization created by the window, door, and skylight industry. The NFRC has
developed a window energy rating system based on whole product performance.
The NFRC label provides a reliable way to determine the window energy properties
and to compare products. The label appears on all products certified to the
NFRC standards and on all window, door, and skylight products which are part
of the Energy Star® program (see page 71). At this time, NFRC labels on window
units give ratings for U-factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), Visible Light
Transmittance (VT), and optionally Air Leakage (AL) and Condensation Resistance
(CR) ratings. For more information, visit the NFRC web site (www.nfrc.org).
Solar Rating and Certification Corporation

Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC) is an independent third-
party certification entity and the only national certification program established
solely for solar thermal products. The SRCC currently operates two major solar
programs: solar collector certification (OG-100) and complete solar water heating
system certification (OG-300). For more information, visit the SRCC web site
(www.solar-rating.org).
WaterSense®
WaterSense, a label proliferated by the US EPA, certifies water-using appliances
use at least 20% less water than required by the Energy Policy Act of 1992, without
sacrificing performance. The WaterSense program labels toilets, urinals, lavatory
faucets, and showerheads. For more information, visit the WaterSense web site
(www.epa.gov/watersense).
72
Incentives & Programs

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INCENTIVES & PROGRAMS
Government agencies offer a range of incentives to support the preservation of

historic buildings and the improved sustainability of the nation’s building stock
in general. It should be noted that these incentives change often, and you should
consult the agencies directly as well as your accountant to ensure your property
and upgrades meet all of the qualifications necessary for these credits, abatements,
and incentives.
Types of incentives available to owners of historic buildings

There are federal-, state-, and city-based incentives available to those who wish
to upgrade and retrofit their historic buildings. Federal incentives are typically
administered by the National Park Service, while state-based incentives are
normally organized by the New York State Department of Parks, Recreation and
Historic Preservation and the New York State Energy Research and Development
Authority (NYSERDA). City-based incentive programs tend to be organized by the
New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) and regional utility companies. A
description of the major incentive plans available are listed below.
Key issues
• Federal, state and city incentive programs for energy efficiency upgrades tend
to change their criteria every few years, so it is important to check for the
latest version of each program’s criteria and benefits when you are ready to
apply.
• Most federal, state and city incentive programs tend to be categorized by
technology (e.g., solar panels) or efficiency measure (e.g., home insulation),
rather than the objectives of a renovation project (e.g., improved energy
efficiency), so building owners need to know what they are looking for
in order to find it. For example, NYSERDA, one of the largest state-level
providers of retrofit incentives, offers programs for installing solar thermal
systems that differ from those for installing solar photovoltaic systems, even
though both approaches help improve the energy efficiency of a building. This
can pose a challenge for building owners unfamiliar with the opportunities
available for their building type.
OPPORTUNITIES
Rehabilitating historic buildings with energy efficiency upgrades is a practical
undertaking. Although there is a high up-front cost when installing an energy-
efficient boiler or appliance, these upgrades will yield lower operating costs
overtime, and generally result in a payback period of just a few years.
• When organizing the installation of your program, NYSERDA’s database of
approved and licensed contractors is a great resource in choosing someone to
carry out your retrofit or upgrade.
• Consult with your accountant and the agencies offering incentive programs
early on to ensure your property and upgrade plans meet all of the
qualifications requirements for the incentive.
Federal Level Understand your options. A good way to begin any

Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives retrofit is to have a consultant conduct an energy audit.
Often, utilities can provide an energy audit free of charge.
A 20% income tax credit is available for the substantial rehabilitation of historic,
income-producing properties that are determined by the Secretary of the Interior, Photo © Clark Jones, PlaNYC
through the National Park Service, to be “certified historic structures.” The work


$ $ $
performed (both interior and exterior) must meet the Secretary of the Interior’s
A Standards for Rehabilitation and be approved by the National Park Service.

http://www.nps.gov/tps/tax-incentives.htm
State Level
New York State Tax Credit Program for Income Producing Properties
Owners of income producing properties that have been approved to receive the
20% federal rehabilitation tax credit (see page 73) automatically qualify for an
additional state tax credit for 20% of the qualified rehabilitation expenditures up
to $5,000,000. In order to qualify, the placed-in-service date must be after January
1, 2010, and the property must be located in an eligible census tract. There is no
application form. Visit the web site for details and frequently asked questions
(FAQ).
www.nysparks.com/shpo/tax-credit-programs
Before
New York State Historic Home Ownership Rehabilitation Tax Credit
Rehabilitation work on historic residential structures may qualify for a tax
incentive. Houses must be an owner-occupied residential structure and be
individually listed on the State or National Register of Historic Places, or a
contributing building in a historic district that is listed on the state or National
Register of Historic Places. Visit the web site for details, frequently asked
questions (FAQ), and application forms.
www.nysparks.com/shpo/tax-credit-programs
New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA)
NYSERDA organizes and runs a variety of programs that provide financial
assistance to those interested in energy efficient upgrades in their homes. There
are a range of incentives programs for single family, multifamily and commercial
properties, as well as incentives geared towards installations of renewable energy
After technologies in your home.
Financing through state programs. www.nyserda.org
Images of 47 Skillman Avenue before its renovation and City Level

after. The homeowner applied for and received both the
New York State Historic Homeownership Rehabilitation New York City Green Roof Property Tax Abatement
Tax Credit and the Residential Energy Credit. New York City Department of Buildings offers property tax abatements for
Photos © Laura Heim Architect PLLC building owners who wish to install green roofs.
www.nyc.gov/html/dof/html/property/property_tax_reduc_individual.shtml
New York City Solar Panel Tax Abatement
New York City’s Department of Buildings runs an incentive program that can pay
you up to $62,500 to install a solar electric system in your building.
www.nyc.gov/html/gbee/html/incentives/solar.shtml
NYC °CoolRoofs Program
New York City’s Department of Buildings runs the NYC °CoolRoofs Program,
which trains volunteers to paint the flat roofs of city buildings white, to reflect
about 70% of incident solar heat. This prevents extra loads on a building’s HVAC
system, especially in the summertime, and saves you money on cooling in the
summer.
www.nyc.gov/coolroofs
Utility-Run Incentives
Utilities like National Grid and Con Edison run a wide variety of incentive
programs for tenants and building owners who wish to undertake energy
74
Incentives & Programs

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efficiency upgrades, or installation of renewable energy and clean energy

A
technologies. Look on the utilities’ web sites for more information, since these
incentive programs tend to change overtime.
www.nationalgridus.com
www.coned.com/greenteam
There are no regulations directly applicable to the Incentives & Programs section
of the manual. See individual sections for regulatory information specific to the
opportunity or technology.
RESOURCES
Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE):
See “New York State” for specific energy incentives
www.dsireusa.org/incentives
Department of Buildings, Sustainability
Tax abatements for green roofs and solar panels
Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives
Program offers financial incentives for restoring historic buildings
www.nps.gov/tps/tax-incentives.htm
Preservation Directory
Compiles funding sources for historic preservation projects
www.preservationdirectory.com/PreservationGeneralResources/
GrantsFundingSources.aspx
NYSERDA Renewable Energy Programs
Offer financial incentives for installing renewable energy systems
www.nyserda.ny.gov/Energy-Efficiency-and-Renewable-Programs.aspx
Rehabilitation Tax Credit & Real Estate Tax Tips
www.irs.gov/businesses/small/industries/article/0,,id=97599,00.html
State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)
Governs historic buildings across New York State
Tax Incentives Assistance Project (TIAP)
A nonprofit group that compiles energy-saving tax incentives
www.energytaxincentives.org
US Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program provides energy
efficiency incentives
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/weatherization/apply.cfm

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ting & Cooling Key Resources Appendix
A ppendix A: Regulatory Overview

Historic preservation is a nationwide movement to maintain buildings, landmarks,
and landscapes that are significant to local or national history. The National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 and the New York State Historic Preservation Act of 1980
established the National and State Registers programs. New York City’s preservation
agency, the Landmark Preservation Commission, is one of the country’s most
active preservation bodies, and was established in 1965, one year after the historic
Pennsylvania Station was torn down to make way for Madison Square Garden.
What is a landmark?
The State and National Registers of Historic Places recognize buildings, structures,
districts, objects, and sites that are significant in the history, architecture,
archeology, engineering, and culture of New York and the nation. In New York
City, a landmark is a building, property, or object that has been designated by the
Landmarks Preservation Commission because it has a special character or special
historical or aesthetic interest or value as part of the development, heritage, or
cultural characteristics of the city, state, or nation.
In an effort to uphold the historic culture of New York City, codes and regulations
manage and track environmental and cultural preservation, as well as the quality,
performance, maintenance and safety of construction measures. City, state, and
federal programs and agencies listed here are both regulators and resources for
your renovation project.
Preservation Agencies
National Park Service (NPS)
The federal government lists historic districts and landmarks on the National
Register of Historic Places through the U.S. Department of Interior, under the
auspices of the National Park Service. The NPS oversees the National Historic
Landmarks program, as well as the National Register of Historic Places,
established by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. The National
Register is an official list of buildings, structures, districts, objects, and sites
significant in the history and culture of the nation. Generally, properties eligible
for listing in the National Register are at least 50 years old. For more information
and a searchable database of National Register properties, visit the NPS web site
(www.cr.nps.gov/nr/about.htm).
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation (SHPO)
In New York, the Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation
and Historic Preservation, who is also the State Historic Preservation Officer
(SHPO), administers the National Register program. In addition, the New York State
Historic Preservation Act of 1980 established the New York State Register of Historic
Places, because there are properties important to New York State that may not be
eligible for the National Register but are still worthy of recognition and preservation.
There are no restrictions placed on private owners of federal or state registered
properties. Private property owners may sell, alter or dispose of their property as
they wish. However, listed properties receive some protections from the effects
of federal and/or state agency-sponsored, licensed or assisted projects through a
notice, review, and consultation process.
One of the key benefits of owning a registered or eligible property is access to
Federal and State Historic Preservation Tax Incentives, including the New York
State Rehabilitation Tax Credit for Homeowners. These incentives will be more
76
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Appendix A: Regulatory Overview
A
fully discussed in the Incentives & Programs chapter. The best way to determine if
your property is listed or eligible for the State or National Register is to contact the
Survey & Evaluation Unit staff member assigned to your county (www.nysparks
.com/shpo/contact/). For additional information, visit the NY SHPO web site
(www.nysparks.com/shpo/national-register/).
New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC)

The Landmarks Preservation Commission is the New York City agency that is
responsible for identifying, designating, and regulating the City’s landmarks and
the buildings in the City’s historic districts.
The LPC helps preserve these buildings and sites by regulating alterations to their
significant features. The LPC’s mission is not to prevent owners from making
changes to their designated buildings. Instead, the LPC works with owners to
make certain that alterations are appropriate and do not detract from the special
character of the city’s landmarks and historic districts.
The LPC must approve in advance any restoration, alteration, reconstruction,
demolition, or new construction affecting any designated property, including
buildings in historic districts. LPC approval is required for any project that will
affect the exterior appearance of a designated building, even if a Department of
Buildings (DOB) permit is not needed for the proposed work. If your proposed
project does require a permit from the DOB, LPC approval is also needed before
beginning work on your building’s exterior.
LPC approval is required for changes to the interior of the building only when
a permit from the Department of Buildings is required for the work, or when
changes to the interior will affect the exterior of the building. Many of the
opportunities presented in this manual do not affect the exterior and are therefore
not subject to substantive review by LPC.
You do not need a permit from the Landmarks Commission to perform ordinary
repairs or maintenance chores, and many of the suggestions presented in this
manual are not subject to substantive review by LPC. Examples of types of
work that do or do not require an LPC permit are included in each section. The
Commission’s Preservation Department staff can tell you whether a permit is
needed for work you are considering. There are two avenues for LPC review, the
most common being a Staff Level approval, and the other, a presentation to a full
Commission at a public hearing. For more detailed information, refer to the LPC
web site (www.nyc.gov/landmarks), or contact the LPC Public Information Officer
for questions pertaining to the LPC application requirements and review process.
To determine if your property is a City landmark or a building in a City historic
district, you can search the LPC’s Historic District Maps using the LPC web site
(www.nyc.gov/landmarks); or search by address using New York City’s online
map portal, NYCityMap (gis.nyc.gov/doitt/nycitymap//), or the New York City
Buildings Department Buildings Information System (BIS) accessed through the
New York City DOB web site (www.nyc.gov/buildings).
OTHER AGENCIES
New York City Department of Buildings (DOB)
The mission of the New York City Department of Buildings is to ensure the safe and
lawful use of buildings and properties by enforcing the Construction Codes and the
Zoning Resolution. The New York City Construction Codes include the Building
Code, Plumbing Code, Fuel Gas Code, Mechanical Code, and Energy Conservation
Code. Most construction in New York City requires a permit, although ordinary
repairs, maintenance, and cosmetic work, such as interior painting or plaster, do not
require a permit.

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A
The DOB divides construction work into two main categories: New Buildings and
Alterations. Although different types of work can be done under one application,
more than one permit may be required. For example, different permits are
required for plumbing and construction work, and electrical work must receive
a separate permit directly from the DOB Bureau of Electrical Control. DOB Rule
101-14 establishes categories of work that may be classified as a minor alteration or
ordinary repair and therefore may be exempt from the permit requirements of the
New York City construction codes. Rule 101-14 can be downloaded from the City’s
web site (www.nyc.gov/html/dob/downloads/rules/1_RCNY_101-14.pdf ).
The DOB also enforces the New York City Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC),
which sets energy-efficiency standards for new construction and alterations to
existing buildings in New York City. Until 2011, renovations were typically exempt
from meeting the energy code, but that changed with the passage of Local Law
85-2010. All building renovations must meet the energy code regardless of scale.
Historic buildings listed on the NY State Register of Historic Places or the National
Register of Historic Places, either individually or as a contributing building in a
historic district, and buildings that have been determined to be eligible for listing
on the state or national registers, are exempt from compliance with the energy
code. City designated buildings that are not also listed or eligible for listing on
the state or national registers, must comply with the energy code. If an owner or
applicant provides documentation to the LPC determining that a property has
been listed or is eligible for listing on the state or national registers, the LPC will
affirm the eligibility of the property as exempt from complying with the energy
code in formal correspondence to the DOB.
Exemptions exist for certain types of work, and City and State codes and
guidelines are often updated. Refer to the most recent editions before beginning
a project. The Greening New York City’s Historic Buildings manual provides
additional DOB regulation information within each section of the manual. For
more information about the DOB application and permit process, or the NYCECC,
visit the DOB web site (www.nyc.gov/buildings).
New York City Department of City Planning (DCP)

The Department of City Planning promotes strategic growth, transit-oriented
development, and sustainable communities in the City. It supports the City Planning
Commission, which reviews more than 500 land use applications for actions such
as zoning changes and special permits each year. For policy analysis and technical
assistance relating to housing, transportation, community facilities, demography,
waterfront, and public space, visit the DCP web site (www.nyc.gov/planning).
In early 2012, the DCP passed the Zone Green Amendment, which was designed
to remove zoning impediments to the construction and retrofitting of green
buildings, including exterior wall insulation, greenhouses, wind energy, sun
control devices, solar energy, and other rooftop equipment. This amendment
gives owners more choices for the investments they can make to save energy, save
money, and improve environmental performance. Note that the provisions of this
amendment do not override LPC review or regulations. For more information on
Zone Green Amendment, visit the DCP web site (www.nyc.gov/planning).
Energy Conservation Construction Code of New York State (ECCCNYS)

The Energy Conservation Construction Code of New York State addresses the
design and construction of energy-efficient building envelopes and the installation
of energy-efficient mechanical, lighting and power systems. The emphasis of
the code is on energy performance and establishes minimum requirements for
buildings using prescriptive and performance-related measures. It makes possible
the use of new materials and innovative techniques that conserve energy. The
ECCCNYS is available for purchase from the International Code Council web site
(www.iccsafe.org) or by telephone at (800) 786-4452.
78
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Appendix b: glossary
APpendix B: glossary
Awning: A projecting shading device, usually of made of canvas, mounted on the outside of a door or window.
Ballast: A device (such as a fluorescent lamp) used to provide starting voltage or to stabilize the current in a circuit.
Batt: Pre-cut panels of insulation available in a variety of lengths, widths and R-values. Batt insulation is made to fit within most
regular wall framing, which are usually spaced 12”, 16”, or 24” on center, and for either 8-ft. or 9-ft. high
walls. Batt insulation is available with and without facing.
Biodiversity: The existence of a wide range of different types of organisms in a given place at a given time.
Building science: The study of the interaction between occupants, building components, systems, and the surrounding
environment.
Casement: A window sash that is hinged on the side.

Cistern: An artificial reservoir (underground tank) for storing liquids, such as rainwater.
Clapboard: Wood siding composed of horizontal, overlapping boards, the lower edges of which are usually thicker than the
upper.
Clerestory window: 1. The upper part of the nave, transepts, and choir of a church, containing windows.
2. An upper portion of a wall containing windows for supplying natural light to a building.
Condenser: Apparatus used to condense vapor into liquid,
Door saddle: Secured to the door sill (door sill: creates the base of the frame of a doorway, a sturdy foundation that redirects
water.) The door saddle is secured to the sill to help in closing the air gap below the door. It can be used on
an exterior door or an interior one.
Dormer: A vertical structure, usually housing a window, which projects from a sloping roof and is covered by a separate roof
structure.
Double-hung: A type of window with two sashes, each sliding on a vertical track.
Eave: The overhanging edge of a roof.
Embodied energy: Energy used to produce a specific good or service including the energy used for extraction, manufacture,
transportation of materials to site, and construction of a finished building.
Faced batts: Used in exterior walls as well as attics, finished basements, ceilings, floors, knee walls and cathedral ceilings. The
facing material usually serves as a vapor retarder and makes handling and attachment easier to install.
Fascia: A horizontal, flat element often combined with a cornice and architrave.
Flashing: Strips of sheet metal bent to fit the angle between any two roof surfaces or between the roof and any projection, such
as a chimney.
Gable: The upper portion of an end wall formed by the slope of a roof.
Graywater: Any household wastewater with the exception of wastewater from toilets, which is known as blackwater.
High-albedo: Very reflective roof coatings that lower the absorption of solar energy and can reduce building air-conditioning
energy use.
Insulated glazing unit: Multi layered, hermetically sealed glass panes that have very dry air or inert gas between the glass
panes.
Lath: A thin narrow strip of wood nailed to rafters, joists, or studding as groundwork for slates, tiles, or plaster.
Luminaires: A complete lighting unit consisting of one or more lamps, together with components of a tungsten or fluorescent
light fitting.
Meeting rail: A sash rail in a double-hung window designed to interlock with an adjacent sash rail.
Multi-wythe: A multiple-wythe masonry wall may be composed of a single type of masonry unit layered to increase its
thickness and structural strength, or different masonry units chosen by function, such as an economical

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A
concrete block serving a structural purpose and a more
expensive brick chosen for its appearance.
Muntin: A thin framing member that separates the panes of a window sash or
glazed doors.
Rim joist: A sill (sills: the horizontal timbers of a building) which rests on the
foundation, meeting the ends of the joists--( joist: is one of
the set of parallel timbers beneath the floor boards that run
from one side of a building to the other).
R-value: A measure of thermal resistance used in the building and construction
industry.
Sash: The secondary part of a window which holds the glazing in place; may be
operable or fixed; usually constructed of horizontal and
vertical members; sash may be subdivided with muntins.
Sill: The horizontal member at the bottom of a window.
Sill plate: A heavy horizontal timber at the bottom of the frame of a wood
structure; the timber rests directly on a foundation.
Soffit vents: 1. The exposed underside of any architectural element,
especially a roof.
2. The underside of a structural component such as a beam,
arch, or recessed area.
Thermal-break frames: Designed to deal with thermal bridging, which is when
heat leaks through a conductive path such as metal framing.
Thermal bridging can reduce thermal resistance of the wall
and can cause moisture problems for the frame and internal
linings. A thermal break addresses the issue of thermal
bridging.
Thermostatic control: A device sue for items such as a home heating system,
a refrigerator, or an air conditioner, that automatically
responds to temperature changes and activates switches to
control the equipment.
Threshold: The plank, stone, or piece of timber that lies under a door.
Transom: 1. A horizontal bar of wood or stone across a window.
2. The cross-bar separating a door from the window, panel,
or fanlight above it. 3. the window above the transom bar of
a door. 4. the glazed area above a display window or door
separated from the main window area or door by a transom
bar.
Unfaced batts: Pre-cut panels of insulation available in a variety of lengths, widths
and R-values that does not include facing. Batt insulation
is made to fit within most regular wall framing, which are
usually spaced 12”, 16”, or 24” on center, and for either 8-ft.
or 9-ft. high walls.
Vampire loads: Occur when appliances such as the TV, coffee maker and stereo
draw power even when off, in standby or low power mode.
Vapor barrier: A thin layer of special plastic or composite material that prevents
moisture from getting trapped inside the wall where it can
cause mold growth.
Wythe: A continuous vertical section of masonry one unit in thickness. A wythe
may be independent of, or interlocked with, the adjoining
wythe(s). A single wythe of brick that is not structural in
nature is referred to as a veneer.
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Appendix C: Case Study
APpendix C: case study on

263, 265 & 267 Henry Street
Building Overview Building overview summary

Address: 263, 265 & 267 Henry Street, Manhattan, NY Address 263, 265 & 267 Henry
Street, Manhattan, NY
Building Type: Today these three adjacent Federal style rowhouses function
Building Federal-style Rowhouse
together as a single building. They are the office headquarters of the Henry Street
Type
Settlement, one of the nation’s first settlement houses. The buildings range from
four to five stories and their total floor area is 21,300 square feet. The walls are of History Built: circa 1830;
brick construction, the roof is asphalt and the windows are single- and double- Additional floors added:
glazed. Late 19th Century
Building History: The three buildings were originally constructed around 1830 LPC New York City
as two-story single family residences. In the 1880s, two upper stories were added District Individual landmark;
to 263 Henry Street and an additional story was added to both 265 and 267 Henry State and National
Street around the same time. After the Settlement acquired the buildings, party Historic landmark
walls were broken down to create interior connections between all three buildings. Architect Studio MBK;
Team Li/Saltzman Architects,
Historic Designations: New York City Individual landmark, State and National P.C.; Thornton Tomasetti
Historic landmark
Engineer AltieriSeborWeiber LLC
Project Lead Architect/Consultant: Michael Kriegh, Studio MBK Team Consulting Engineers;
Additional Architectural Assistance: Li/Saltzman Architects, P.C. is an The Steam Balancing
architectural firm specializing in preservation and restoration, with a particular Company
emphasis on historic properties in New York City.
Thornton Tomasetti is a leader in engineering design, investigation and analysis
with practices in building structure, building skin, building performance,
construction support services, and property loss consulting. Thornton Tomasetti
addresses the full life cycle of a structure. A team of architects from Thornton
Tomasetti assisted on the project team.
Consulting Engineers: Philip C. Steiner, P.E., Principal AltieriSeborWieber LLC
Consulting Engineers; Jonathan Flowthow, Principal, The Steam Balancing
Company
Project Intent & Goals

The Municipal Art Society of New York has been working with the Lower East
Side’s Henry Street Settlement to retrofit their c. 1830s headquarter buildings, Facades of 263, 265 & 267 Henry Street. The project
which are recognized as both local and national landmarks. The Henry Street team’s holistic approach to achieving sustainable
Demonstration Project was begun as part of the MAS’s Preservation and Climate operations focused on resource use reductions in the
Change Campaign in order to show that New York City’s historic buildings can building design, as well as building operations and user
increase energy efficiency without tremendous expense. The project’s goal is to behavior.
show policymakers and the general public how to make energy efficiency gains and
Photo © Giles Ashford
lower operating costs without compromising architectural character or impacting
the building’s durability. This project is supported by the J.M. Kaplan Fund,
the New York Community Trust, the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s
Elizabeth and Robert Jeffe Preservation fund for New York City, and the National
Endowment for the Arts.

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Implementation Methodology
Energy audits
The energy retrofit process began with three energy audits, in order to be as
thorough as possible. As a small business, the Settlement qualified for Con
Edison’s Small Business Direct Installation Program. Con Edison sent energy
experts Comverge, Inc. to survey the buildings’ existing lighting, ballasts and
fixtures. The auditors evaluated the type and watts of existing fixtures and lamps;
estimated kW usage of existing equipment; proposed retrofit fixtures and lamps
for 80 separate locations throughout the buildings; and estimated the post retrofit
kW reduction.
The second audit was conducted by the EME Consulting Engineering Group,
LLC as part of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s
(NYSERDA) Energy Audit Program. The auditors performed field surveys,
had discussions with facility personnel, and reviewed historic energy usage
to understand the building systems and staff use patterns. The result was an
assessment of one year’s energy use and costs; a survey of existing lighting
conditions; and a description of HVAC, hot water, and other equipment. The
NYSERDA audit offered general recommendations on lighting, boilers and
information on competitive energy markets (ESCOs). The auditors also identified
NYSERDA’s Existing Facilities Program as a possibility for the Henry Street
Settlement. This program offers strategies to obtain financial incentives for energy
efficiency projects. Tier I offers eligible customers financial incentives for the
purchase and installation of pre-qualified energy efficiency measures. Tier II offers
eligible customers financial incentives for performance-based energy efficiency
improvements based upon a technical engineering analysis.
The third and final audit was conducted by Andrew Rudin, an independent
auditor with expertise in historic community facilities. Mr. Rudin’s audit included
a description of existing conditions, the physical characteristics of the buildings,
facility usage, heating and cooling systems, lighting, and metering. He evaluated
the Settlement’s energy performance by installing temperature recorders,
measuring temperature fluctuations for a one–week period in 10 locations
throughout the facility. Rudin also conducted a lighting survey to determine
locations where fluorescent tubes and ballasts should be replaced. This final audit
included an assessment of the pros and cons of implementing certain upgrades.
Overall the auditors found that the Settlement exhibited problems common
to many building types, such as overheating during the winter and inefficient
lighting. All three audits suggested monitoring energy usage and cost; replacing
inefficient lighting; purchasing efficient replacements when things break; and
sealing gaps around windows, doors and air conditioners to reduce air infiltration.
All the audits estimated “payback”—the length of time it would take for
investments to pay for themselves in saved energy costs.
Eco-charrette
After the audits were conducted, MAS, with the help of architect Michael
Kriegh held a day-long eco-charrette—a collaborative design and solutions-
seeking process—at the Henry Street Settlement. An interdisciplinary group of
experts volunteered to investigate the building’s inefficiency issues and discuss
ways to make the buildings more sustainable. The goal was to identify specific
efficiency measures and to develop a phased plan for implementation to help the
Settlement save both energy and money, and provide a more comfortable working
environment. Mr. Kriegh is now working with Settlement staff and some of the
charrette participants to implement the short-term energy efficiency measures
identified at the eco-charrette.
82
$ $ $
Appendix C: Case Study
Specific Sustainability Measures

Lighting/electricity
After Con Edison contractors completed their audit at the Settlement, they
installed replacements throughout the building free of charge, with the exception
of the basement (this was paid for by the Settlement). Some of the upgrades
included simple bulb replacement, such as replacing incandescent lamps with
screw-in Compact Fluorescent Lighting (CFLs). Other upgrades included
replacing fixtures, such as the incandescent EXIT signs with more efficiently
hardwired LED EXIT signs, and retrofitting existing T12 lamp fixtures and
electromagnetic ballasts with more high performance T8 lamps and ballasts.
Altogether, the Con Edison contractors estimated that the Settlement would save
approximately 60% in energy use and in turn would reduce their CO2 production
by over 53,000 pounds.
Other lighting efficiency recommendations included installing indoor occupancy
sensors to ensure lights are not left on unnecessarily. Participants at the eco-
charrette also suggested that outdoor security lighting would benefit from energy-
efficient bulbs, motion control sensors, and having fixtures closer to the ground in
order to reduce the required wattage.
User behavior
There are approximately 48 employees working in the Henry Street Headquarter
buildings each weekday. Their behavior has a huge impact on the amount of energy
used. After a walk-through of the buildings, eco-charrette participants identified
a number of ways that the Settlement could cut back on energy use simply by
unplugging redundant copy machines, computers, and other appliances to avoid
draining electricity when they are on standby. However, changing ingrained
behavior can be difficult. A conscious effort must be made both individually and
collectively to change behavior.
Some suggestions to help Henry Street employees use less energy included:
• Hold a staff charrette to solicit ideas and generate interest.
• Conduct ongoing staff education on building usage.
• Establish a dialogue among facilities staff and office staff.
• Demonstrate rapid, positive change by addressing basic measures.
• Send institutional signals (Create a HSSH specific Green Manual, signage,
waste reduction guidelines).
• Turn off nonessential energy-guzzling appliances, such as rarely used
refrigerators.
Heating & Cooling Systems

The NYSERDA and Rudin energy audits both suggested boiler replacement.
Boiler performance is based on its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE).
The minimum efficiency standard for hot water boilers, as established by the U.S.
Department of Energy, is 80% AFUE. The Settlement has two oil-fired boilers—
one hot water and the other steam. The boilers were each found to have an
efficiency rate of about 75% and, at almost 20 years old are nearing the end of their
expected lives. Maintaining a boiler is a standard maintenance requirement, but it
is more cost effective to replace rather than repair when it is past its useful life.
NYSERDA recommended replacing the current oil-fired boilers with gas-fired,
high-efficiency condensing boilers, which can achieve seasonal efficiencies as high
as 96%. New boilers are physically smaller, better insulated, use less fuel and emit
fewer pollutants into the air, making them both more efficient and better for the
environment.

$
$ $

A
Until the boilers at the Settlement’s headquarters can be replaced with more
efficient boilers, it was recommended that they be tuned and that the water
temperature be reduced from 140 to 110 degrees. It was also suggested to install
thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) on existing radiators to allow individual
temperature control in each room. NYSERDA also recommended insulating the
steam and hot water pipes in accordance with the NYS Energy Conservation
Construction Code, which will prevent heat loss and make the overall system more
efficient. The Settlement is now working on acquiring a full-fledged mechanical
report in order to better understand the pros, cons, and feasibility of switching to
another system.
Windows
An assessment of the Henry Street windows was completed by experts from
engineering firm Thornton Tomasetti. Their assessment found that some of the
Settlement’s historic, single-pane windows could be made more efficient. The
assessment also found that some of the original windows across the rear façade
had been replaced, and, in fact, these replacement windows were leaking air that
caused drafts.
A detailed window analysis determined that the best way to help improve the
historic window’s thermal efficiency was to install interior storm windows.
Interior storm windows provide a layer of insulation without interfering with
the historic character of the original windows. Thornton Tomasetti studied
the windows thermo-graphically with an infrared camera and analyzed the
results using softwares called THERM and WINDOW, which model two-
dimensional heat-transfer effects in building components to predict storm window
performance.
Two of the original windows at the front of the building will be fitted with custom-
made advanced energy interior storm windows. Window tests will be repeated to
determine the efficiency of the new storm windows and ensure that they are an
effective solution.
Water
Participants of the eco-charrette discussed several ways the Henry Street
Settlement could conserve water. Short-term suggestions included installing
low-flow aerators on faucets to reduce the amount of water released. Aerators
are inexpensive and can cut water usage by up to 50%. Suggestions also included
conducting a late-night leak investigation to find any major sources of leaks. Some
medium and long-term suggestions included installing dual-flush mechanisms on
existing toilets and replacing restroom faucets with sensor activated faucets on an
ongoing basis. Implementing a graywater recycling system was also suggested as a
way to further reduce water consumption.
Financial & Energy Performance Assessments

After the completion of the lighting retrofit and bulb replacement, Mr. Kriegh
analyzed the impact of the lighting changes and found that there was a 7–10%
drop in the number of kWh used after the lighting changes were made by the Con
Edison contractor, estimating the energy savings at about 10,000 kWh per year.
MAS will continue to implement the short-term measures identified at the 2011
eco-charrette. As more energy efficiency improvement measures are implemented
at the Henry Street Settlement, MAS will continue to evaluate and report on the
results.
84
Acknowledgments
The Municipal Art Society of New York:
Eugenie Birch, Chair MAS Board of Directors
Laurie Beckelman, MAS Board & Chair MAS Preservation Committee
Charles Platt, MAS Board & Chair Emeritus MAS Preservation Committee
MAS Preservation Committee, with special thanks to:

Judith Saltzman, Vice-chair
Mary Dierickx
Frances Eberhart
Renee Epps
Ken Lustbader
Jean Phifer
MAS Staff:
Ronda Wist
*Lisa Kersavage
Aileen Gorsuch
Hazel Balaban
*Jean Tatge
Dale Ramsey
Mary Rowe
André Allaire
(*Indicates former MAS staff members.)
Landmarks Preservation Commission:

Robert B. Tierney, Chair
Mark Silberman, General Counsel
Landmarks Preservation Department staff, with special thanks to:

Sarah Carroll, Director of Preservation
Cory Scott Herrala, Senior Preservationist
Elisabeth de Bourbon, Director of Communications
Special thanks to:

Frank Sanchis, World Monuments Fund, Director U.S. Programs
Michael Kriegh, Principle MBK Architect
The Pratt Center for Community Development
The Henry Street Settlement
Li/Saltzman Architects
Thornton Tomasetti
The Municipal Art Society of New York
111 West 57th Street
New York, NY 10019
T 212 935 3960
MAS.org
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of our
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Greening NYC’s Historic Buildings

Green Rowhouse Manual

Vin Cipolla, President

Walls & Roofs 12

Windows & doors 20

Heating & Cooling 28

Lighting & Electrical 35

Plumbing & Water Efficiency 42

Appliances & Plug Loads 46

Indoor Health, Housekeeping & Materials 51

Sustainable landscape & Outdoor Amenities 57

Fuel Efficiency & Renewable Energy 63

Incentives & Programs 73

Appendices & Glossary 76

The Municipal Art Society of New York 3

Letter from the President

Dear Fellow New Yorker,

Vin Cipolla, President

Lafayette Street Rowhouses, Fort Greene Historic District, Brooklyn

Greening NYC’s Historic Buildings

Introduction It takes many years

• Making building systems quieter

The Municipal Art Society of New York 5

Historic preservation and Climate Change

Historic buildings are inherently efficient

Preservation Commission (LPC) or New York City Department of Buildings (DOB)

The Municipal Art Society of New York 7

The Municipal Art Society of New York 9

The Municipal Art Society of New York 11

WALLS & ROOFS

Typical wall and roof assemblies found in pre-1940s buildings

Key issues with walls and roofs in historic buildings

the costs for repair or replacement. Regular maintenance of gutters, roofs,

Weatherize your home

The Municipal Art Society of New York 13

›› Use mineral wool or cotton batt for larger openings, such

INSULATION ZONE R-VALUE Reduce heat loss through your chimney

Indoor Health & Housekeeping Rating Systems Incentives Sustainable S

Insulation Application Insulation Type / Material commeNts $ $ $

Unvented Roof Professional guidance is recommended when determining the

Foam; Blanket is a concern; trapping moisture can lead to mold or mildew

Insulation applications. While fiberglass insulation is

The Municipal Art Society of New York 15

Insulate basement floor and crawl spaces

insulation Type / Material Cost Performance & Comments

Can block thermal short circuits when installed continuously over

Moderate areas, and around obstructions.

Energy performance of cellulose fill is comparable to high-density

obstructions; low- or no-toxicity fire retardant.

Insulation and vapor control $ $ $

• Make sure you take proper health

The Municipal Art Society of New York 17

Department of Buildings (DOB) Regulations

Roofs and heat island

Weatherization, Insulation & Air Sealing

North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) provides a

guide to different types of insulation, incentives, and industry developments $ $ $

The Municipal Art Society of New York 19

WINDOWS & DOORS

A According to the U.S. Department of Energy, doors and windows combined

Key issues with windows and doors in historic buildings

Weatherize other glazed building components

SEALANT (Caulk): Exteriors & Windows/Doors

The Municipal Art Society of New York 21

Provide shading on windows

The Municipal Art Society of New York 23

Thermal Bridges and Breaks Window Replacement